Yesterday in Melbourne, the Spanish tennis player, Rafael Nadal overcame Australian Bernard Tomic after the end of the first set, when Tomic decided to retire due to a injury in his leg and back. The announcement provoked boos from the audience.
Nadal had won the first set 6-4, before the Australian decided to leave because of back problems. Tomic looked uncomfortable with his injury and requested treatment during the first set. However he continued to lose his serve in the ninth game. After Nadal closed the first set, Tomic said he could not continue and retired.
Nadal was sympathetic with Tomic, world number 57, and applauded the Australian as he left the court.
“I feel sorry for Bernard and I hope he recovers soon,” said Nadal. “I know how hard is this situation since a year ago I experienced the same situation here on this court, so I wish him well for the rest of the year,” he said.
With the victory, the Spanish is not only seeded but also ranks the second round of the Australia Open. The Spanish will play in the next round against another Australian, Thanasi Kokkinakis.
