Shapovalov: Nadal received preferential treatment

Denis Shapovalov (left) and Rafael Nadal Abaca Press

Denis Shapovalov: Rafael Nadal received preferential treatment in Aussie Open win

By Adam Stites | Last updated Jan 25, 2022 4:53 PM ET

No. 14 Denis Shapovalov was eliminated in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open after a hard-fought, five-set loss to No. 6 Rafael Nadal (6-3, 6-4, 4-6, 3-6, 6-3), and he made his discontent with the umpire known both during and after the match.

Early in the second set, Shapovalov complained to the chair umpire that Nadal wasn't being penalized for delaying the match with lengthy breaks. When the umpire told Shapovalov that he was wasting time by complaining, the Canadian told the umpire, "You guys are all corrupt!"

️ "You guys are all corrupt!"

Denis Shapovalov has unloaded on the chair umpire in a stunning outburst on Rod Laver arena. #AusOpen - Live on Channel 9 and 9Now pic.twitter.com/BUdTxut1Fc
— Wide World of Sports (@wwos) January 25, 2022

Shapovalov, 22, earned a spot in the quarterfinals with an upset victory over No. 3 Alexander Zverev. After his loss to Nadal, he walked back his accusation of corruption but stood by his frustration.

"I misspoke when I said he's corrupt or whatever I said," Shapovalov said, via Reuters. "It's definitely emotional but I do stand by my side. I think it's unfair, you know, how much Rafa is getting away with."

Later, Shapovalov was asked directly if he believes Nadal receives preferential treatment.

"Of course - 100% he does, 100%. Every other match that I have played, the pace has been so quick because the refs have been on the clock after every single point."

Nadal is set to play No. 7 Matteo Berrettini in the semifinals.

Adam Stites

Adam Stites is a Southern California native who lives in a new state every three months. He’s perennially disappointed by both the Jacksonville Jaguars and Arizona State Sun Devils. His dog is named Ramsey after the best cornerback in the NFL

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