Novak Djokovic scraped and slid to an opening victory at the Madrid Masters on Tuesday, then let loose with a blistering appraisal of the event's controversial blue clay courts.
“That was not tennis, either I need football shoes or some advice on how to play on this court,” said the Serb top seed after beating Spain’s Daniel Gimeno-Traver 6-2, 2-6, 6-3 in the second round.
Serbian World No 1 Novak Djokovic celebrates his Round 2 victory over Spain’s Daniel Gimeno-Traver. Pic/AFP
ADVERTISEMENT
“I cannot find the words to describe this court. It’s really tough to play like this on a centre court. We cannot change anything this year, but my first impressions are not good. I don’t want to be the one complaining, but I say honestly what I feel.
“We need serious discussion about the future of this blue clay. I’ve not found any woman or man who is enthusiastic about this surface. I haven’t heard any one say they like it.”
Nadal advances
Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal made certain of a place in the third round with a straight-sets win over Nikolay Davydenko.u00a0The second-seeded Spaniard broke his opponent four times en route to a 6-2, 6-2 victory in one hour and 20 minutes.u00a0Nadal was joined in the last 16 by compatriot and fifth seed David Ferrer, who overcame Radek Stepanek 7-6 (7/4) 6-2.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
