The Indian Wells began a few days ago, so the organizers did not take long to give free rein to their imagination to come up with questions for the big stars of the tournament. Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff, among them. What they didn’t expect was to be asked about their ideal partner for a mixed doubles match.
Coco Gauff was quick: “For fun, with Ben Shelton.” And she pointed out: “That is not a dream, that could easily happen.” And she confessed: “He has already asked me, but I have to focus on individuals,” she laughed. But, in reality, the only thing the American did was lengthen the wait to pronounce the star name: “Probably, Rafa,” she answered.
She was not the only one who opted for Rafa Nadal. Jessica Pegula, number 5 in the ranking, responded the same as the American. While Angelique Kerber, who is back on the slopes after 18 months of maternity leave, she safely opted for “Rafa”. Iga Swiatek, current world number one, answered more of the same: “Well, Rafa, obviously.” She almost missed saying “doubt offends.”
But the one who surprised the most was Novak Djokovic. When asked about the ideal partner to compete with in mixed doubles, he said: Nadal. He was satisfied with his answer until it was asked again. “Mixed doubles!” He laughed as he put his hands on his head. The world number one was also clear, so clear that he did not hear “mixed”. A response as automatic as if it weren’t the first time he’s thought about it. It is proven: everyone loves Rafa.
2024-03-12 12:14:45
#loves #Nadal #AS.com
