Rick Rycroft / Associated Press
Rafael Nadal, one of the coolest tennis guys, received a woman’s middle finger in the crowd during his second round victory over Michael Mmoh at the 2021 Australian Open on Thursday.
Nadal was questioned during his post-game interview if he knew the person who showed him the middle finger.
“No, and honestly, I don’t care,” said the 20-time Grand Slam champion with a laugh.
“Yeah yeah, [the finger] it was for me, I think. I do not know. Maybe she [drunk] too much gin or tequila. I do not know. But honestly it was [a] strange situation, but, yes, funny at the same time. …
“For me it was funny. Honestly, someone who was treating me with his finger, I don’t know why, but he was … yes. I was surprised, yes, but at the same time I was thinking, poor girl. Because she was probably drunk or something like that. I don’t know. “
It is unclear what prompted the woman to make the gesture towards Nadal.
This was the most remarkable moment of a routine day in the office for the 34-year-old Spaniard, who is seeking his second title at the Australian Open.
He dominated the match from start to finish with huge advantages over Mmoh in winners (40-16) and converted break points (5-0). He also earned 84 percent of the points on his first serve and 94 percent of the points when he scored on a clinical performance.
Mmoh, 23, never made it past the second round of an important tournament.
Nadal steps forward to face Cameron Norrie in the third round on Saturday.