Rafael Nadal criticized Spain's female Davis Cup captain on Tuesday for fueling a "false and absurd" debate that started when his coach and uncle questioned whether a woman could coach in the men's game.

The 14-time Grand Slam winner struck out at captain Gala Leon and the Spanish tennis federation.

"It seems strange to me, as Davis Cup captain, that instead of seeking union and harmony between players, captains and the federation, she has incited and fed a debate that is totally false and absurd," Nadal said.