‘Cheaters Must Be Punished’ – Rafael Nadal Once Joined Martina Navratilova and Other Tennis Stars to Call Out Andre Agassi for His Substance Abuse Confession

Tennis is one of the most popular sports in the world. The good performers on tour, become international celebrities in no time. Although, as the game is highly rewarding, a few of the players may use unfair ways to succeed. One such way is doping. Over years, there have been many cases of notable players failing the dope test. While it’s damaging and unfair for the game, it also affects the interests of fans who idolize them as their idols.

One such incident that shocked the tennis world was the admission of former tennis player Andre Agassi. The American, in his autobiography, admitted to consuming a banned substance and getting away with it. It caused a tremendous uproar in the tennis community. And Rafael Nadal was also critical of the former world number 1.

Here’s how the Spaniard reacted to the news.

Nadal was unhappy with Agassi’s timing in revealing the news

Rafael Nadal expressed his disappointment over the admission of former number 1. He also questioned the timing of revelation from the American.“To me, it seems terrible. Why is he saying this now that he has retired? It’s a way of damaging the sport that makes no sense,” he said.

Further, he stressed the importance of keeping the game clean. “I believe our sport is clean and I am the first one that wants that. Cheaters must be punished and if Agassi was a cheater during his career, he should have been punished,” he added.

Read more: VIDEO: Rafael Nadal’s Savage Gesture to Rival Novak Djokovic During a Doubles Event in Australia

Apart from Nadal, Swiss legend Roger Federer and former tennis star Martina Navratilova also expressed their displeasure over Agassi’s act.

Rafael Nadal in Wimbledon 2022

Rafael Nadal entered Wimbledon Championships 2022 as one of the favorites. The 36-year-old won the first two Grand Slam of the year and was looking in solid form. The Spaniard was aiming to go for the calendar Grand Slam this year. However, an unfortunate injury ruined his chances for the same.

Notably, the 36-year-old fought his way to the quarterfinal against Taylor Fritz of America. In the match against Fritz, the 22-time Grand Slam champion suffered an abdominal muscle tear. However, he bravely fought through the pain and won the match. The Spaniard was all set to face Nick Kyrgios in the semi-final but pulled out due to the injury.

Watch this story: How Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams, and Others Travel

Nadal is expected to recover on time for the US Open later this year. Can he win the US Open this year? Let us know in the comments.