Zidane stunned football on Thursday by quitting as Real coach just five days after leading them to the Champions League title.
“It’s tough to accept that he’s leaving,” said Nadal on the sidelines of the French Open where he is chasing an 11th title.
“He is a great coach who had a lot of success with the team. He is a good, humble person who represents the right values.
“He is the perfect example of how someone who has been successful does the everyday things normally without saying negative things about the club, players, referees.
“Zinedine is always smiling even in the difficult moments, so thanks to him for always setting the right examples.”
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