'I hope this will serve as a lesson' - Rafael Nadal says Alexander Zverev must learn from chair attack

Rafael Nadal has called on Alexander Zverev and other rising stars of the game to control their emotions on court and never cross the line of what is acceptable. Zverev was defaulted from the Mexican Open after repeatedly hitting the umpire’s chair with his racquet after losing a doubles match. Ad/> The German has apologised for his actions, but he is likely to face serious censure and there has been widespread condemnation of his actions.

ATP AcapulcoMilestone win for Nadal in Acapulco as perfect start to year continues2 HOURS AGO Nadal is in Acapulco and after easing into the quarter-finals with a straight-sets win over Stefan Kozlov, he gave his thoughts on the situation. The winner of 21 Grand Slams says he has a good relationship with Zverev, but that there is no place for such acts of aggression and petulance. “It’s unfortunate, without a doubt,” Nadal said.

“I feel sorry for him as I have a good relationship with Alexander. “In the end, he deserves the sanction because you can’t act in this way. “I think Sascha is aware of that and I hope this will serve as a lesson for him and for other young players who sometimes lose control on the court.” Zverev's Mexico DQ not too harsh — Djokovic Corretja: Zverev crossed the line There has been suggestions that Zverev could face a suspension and while not being drawn to comment on what sanction is handed down, Nadal felt punishments must be seen to act as a deterrent.

“I am not going to enter into what is or is not fair in terms of sanction,” Nadal said. “But in the end you have to stop that type of attitude from becoming fashionable." — — - The Olympic Games will return with Paris 2024, live on Eurosport and discovery+. ATP AcapulcoZverev's Mexico disqualification 'not too