Rafael Nadal reveals the 'weird feeling' at major French Open change

The 2019 French Open was heavily disrupted by rain and blustery conditions which led to significant delays for some players.

But in 2020, it is hoped the rain will not stop play, at least on Court Philippe Chatrier, as a roof is currently being built.

While organisers are also looking to introduce night session matches from 2021.

Speaking in an interview with Spanish publication Marca, Nadal was asked about the changes which are set to come in Paris and admitted he doesn’t like playing evening matches.

“I do not know the things that may happen in the future until I experience them,” Nadal said.

“To play on clay at night is something that I don’t like personally.

“It’s a weird feeling that we’re not used to. But everything else I think is good for the viewer. It is a necessary evolution for the sport.

“I am happy and we must congratulate Roland Garros and the French Federation who have made this investment for the benefit of tennis. That is all.

“Roland Garros will always be Roland Garros. Nothing changes.”

During the tournament, play continued past 9am local time before matches were eventually stopped.

But French tennis federation president Bernard Giudicelli has revealed 2020 will be the final year that matches will have to stop for bad light.

“The lighting will be on four main courts: Lenglen, Chatrier, Mathieu, and Court No. 4,” Giudicelli said.

“And for the other ones it’s 2021.

“It’s the last year where matches will end because of night time.”

“I confirm that we will be playing with the roof in 2020.

“We really want to make this stadium alive throughout the year in a configuration that will enable us to offer the best for the people living close by and the best for the players and the audience during the tournament.”

source: express.co.uk