After a thrilling match on the Center court, Rafael Nadal booked his spot in the fourth round of Wimbledon. His 308th Grand Slam win was a breeze for the legend, who established his dominance from the get-go. It is, however, this prowess that shone through in the closing moments of the match as well.

As reality dawned on Lorenzo Sonego, his opponent called him to the net for a final word.

As it happened, earlier in the game, the Italian fell to the ground with a grunt. The ball was on Nadal’s side, who looked bothered by the incident and called his opponent to the middle of the court for a chat.

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A rattled Sonego successfully got the roof closed while he trailed 4-2 in the third set. The theatrical discussion that followed was odd, to say the least, resulting in a quick explanation from the victor after the match.

Rafael Nadal reveals locker-room code

Although triumphant, Nadal looked back on the incident with certain remorse.

“I have to say I was wrong. I should not call him on the net. So apologize for that. My mistake. No problem. I recognize that. After that, all the stuff during the match that I don’t want to comment because is something I spoke with him in the locker room and it stays there.”

Further, Spain’s Raging Bull provided a candid explanation for what was truly troubling him. “My intention was never to bother him at all. Just to tell one thing that was bothering me that I think he was doing in that moment, but that’s it.”

To put things simply, Nadal concluded his argument with a modest closing statement.

“I think there is some codes between players. Yeah, we had some issues there. But that’s it.”

Although Sonego was left with a sour loss, Nadal wasn’t amused with the former’s grunting on-court. Regardless, without commenting on the specifics, the 22-time Grand Slam champion ensured there was respect left.

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After his straight-sets victory over Lorenzo Sonego, Nadal moves forward, keeping his Calendar Slam dream alive, to the second week of Wimbledon. Botic Van de Zandschulp now awaits the history maker in what will be considered another enthralling contest at SW19.