NEW Wimbledon champion Rafael Nadal is not only supremely talented, but is also a genuinely nice guy, according to Lincoln professional Dan Cox.

The 19-year-old, who has been in action at Ilkley this week in a $10,000 grass court event, had nothing but praise for Nadal, who won his second title at the All England club on Sunday.

"I have met Nadal once through my coach and although he didn't know who I was, he was still very polite and respectful," said Cox.

"He still has his feet firmly on the ground even though he is the best player in the world. It's nice to have a Wimbledon champion like that, because he is so unassuming and he respects every one – he's just a really nice guy.

"He is one of my favourite players anyway because of the way he is on court. I love the way he scraps and fights for every point during a game."

Cox was hoping to continue his rise up the world rankings with a consistent run in this week's event.

However, a three-set defeat at the hands of fellow Brit Marcus Willis (3-6, 6-4, 7-6) saw Cox head out of the tournament early.

Lincoln-born Cox will now be putting in a few day's practice before heading to Frinton, Essex, next week for the final grass tournament of the season.

"There are some good players here at Ilkley, some up in the top 200 in the world," said Cox.

"I wanted to do well and my form is quite good. I am hitting the ball well, but I do still have a slight problem with my wrist.

"I am having to tape up before I practise or play matches, which is a bit frustrating, but I will have to get on with it."