Rafael Nadal won hearts during his second round clash at the Australian Open, when he rushed over to check on a ballgirl who was hit by his wayward shot, and kissed her on the cheek as an apology.
The Spanish world number one was playing against Argentine Federico Delbonis at the Rod Laver Arena, when the ballgirl found herself in his firing line.
Nadal went over to check how she was and gave her a quick peck on the cheek, leaving the youngster blushing.
"For her, it was not a good moment, I was so scared for her, the ball was quick and straight on her," Nadal said after the match, giving her his headband as a memento.
"She's a super brave girl. It has been one of the more scary moments of my career. I am very happy she is good. She is brave. Well done."
😘 She was very brave! https://t.co/4RS8Xz80Xb
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) January 23, 2020
Nadal created 20 break point chances but was constantly denied by the Argentine before he wrapped up a 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 win.
The victory set up a third round clash with countryman Pablo Carreno Busta, his doubles partner at this month's ATP Cup.
In 2018, too, one of his shots had hit a ballgirl during an Australian Open match, following which he immediately apologised.
