'The new generation is great, but...' - Zinedine Zidane backs Rafael Nadal to win it all at the French Open

Zinedine Zidane has said that 21-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal is his personal favourite for the French Open despite the newer generation making a strong claim. The former French international was spotted at Roland-Garros, watching Nadal take on Botic van de Zandschulp in a standard victory, winning 6-3 6-2 6-4. Ad/> «The new generation is great, but I am from the older one.

We'll try and keep pushing Rafael Nadal [as the favourite for the French Open] if he can,” said Zidane in an interview with Roland-Garros. /> Roland-Garros'You get a bit nervous' — Henman on Nadal struggling to close out matches17 HOURS AGO “He's still here, so it would be great. But it's true that the new generation with Carlos Alcaraz will eventually take over.» This isn’t the first time Zidane has attended the French Open, having done so back in 2005.

In fact, it was Zidane who awarded him the trophy when Nadal won it back then. /> “He’s won a lot of cups since,” joked the former Real Madrid star. Auger-Aliassime doesn't fear Nadal French Open fourth round encounter Fantastic FAA, Nadal magic, Terrific Teichmann — French Open Top 5 shots Day 6 Top 5: Nadal's best shots in beating Van de Zandschulp at French Open On the stadium changing, Zidane said: “Even inside, it’s not just the stadium.

Everything’s changed. Things evolve, which is good. “It's always a pleasure to be here and share moments like this in such a relaxed atmosphere and watch great athletes do their thing.