Nadal files defamation case against Bachelot

Published by Reuters

Rafael Nadal speaks to the media in Monte Carlo; Getty Images

Rafael Nadal has begun legal proceedings against former French cabinet minister Roselyne Bachelot after she alleged that the Spaniard had failed a drug test.

The 14-time Grand Slam champion issued a statement through his agent on Monday saying he had filed a case for defamation against Bachelot in the Paris law courts.

Bachelot was health and sports minister in 2007-2010 and social affairs minister until 2012.

“This legal proceeding was instigated after Miss Bachelot made offensive remarks last March on le Grand 8 programme on French channel D8,” the statement read.

“Through this case, I intend not only to defend my integrity and my image as an athlete but also the values I have defended all my career.

Nadal added: “I also wish to avoid any public figure making insulting or false allegations against an athlete using the media, without any evidence or foundation and to go unpunished.”

Former world No.1 Nadal, who will attempt to win a 10th French Open title this year, strenuously denies ever having taken performance-enhancing substances.

He reacted angrily to comments made by Bachelot in which she said his seven-month absence from the Tour through injury in 2012 was “probably due to a positive doping test”.

At this year’s Indian Wells tournament Nadal told reporters: “This is going to be the last one, because I’m going to sue her.

“I am tired about these things. I let it go a few times in the past. Not any more.”

Share this: 
  • Most popular articles

6 September 2017

Andrey Rublev was in a One Direction cover band

Yes, you read that right. Tomorrow, Andrey Rublev is going to walk out on court to play th... More

22 August 2017

Putintseva’s epic coaching bust-up

Finally! After years of watching coaches wander on to court and say nothing particularly i... More

19 February 2016

Tennis player grunts or porn star groans?

Roberta Vinci appeared on Italian TV and was put to the test - were the grunts she was hea... More

8 June 2016

Pro tips: successfully changing surfaces

Transitioning between surfaces can be one of the biggest challenges in the game. Understan... More