Nadal apologises to Wimbledon opponent after testy exchange

Rafael Nadal apologised to defeated Wimbledon opponent Lorenzo Sonego after a testy exchange in the closing stages of their third-round clash on Saturday.

Second seed Nadal, the champion in 2008 and 2010, reached the fourth round for the 10th time with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win.

The 36-year-old had required back-to-back four-setters to make the third round and was expected to be tested by Sonego, who made the fourth round last year.

However, Nadal did not face a break point until he dropped serve in the eighth game of the third set, his focus possibly affected by a stoppage to close the Centre Court roof.

He quickly broke back and sealed the victory. Nadal, however, appeared upset by the noise the Italian was making on court. He even summoned Sonego to the net to discuss his displeasure while the two then had another lengthy exchange as they shook hands.

“I have to say that I was wrong. I should not call him on the net. So apologise for that. My mistake in that. No problem. I recognise that,” said Nadal.

“It’s something that I spoke with him in the locker room and it stays there.”