Madrid Open: The story of the blue brick dust that sparked criticism from Nadal and Djokovic

Twelve years ago, exactly 2012he Madrid Open ft. a New surface At the highest level as well blue brick dust, That would catch all the eyes, that would elevate Disagreements It will be hosted by A A unique and unforgettable edition.

the An amazing idea arose to dye clay so that viewers could do so Better distinguish ball movementa situation that was sometimes complicated by the usual orange color I won't get the best reviews One of the best players on the planet as a host Rafael Nadal And the Serbian Novak Djokovic.

“If it doesn't change next year, there will be one less tournament on my calendar.”The Manacori star, 25 years old and ranked second in the world at the time, expressed himself on cement in 2005 and on traditional clay in 2010, after losing 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 in the tournament. Round of 16 against his compatriot Fernando Verdasco.

For his part, Al-Balkany (24 years old) and the leader of the standings, who defended the title he won in 2011, was unable to defend himself after losing 7-6 (2) and 6-3 to his compatriot Janko Tipsarevic in the quarter-finals: “My only disappointment is that This has been decided Without our consent. We must all agree to change, Our opinion must have some value. I don't blame the tournament for fighting for its own interests, however ATP must protect our desires“.

“No one likes that, today I have no words to describe how the stadium was. Either I wear soccer shoes or I invite Chuck Norris to play herecompleted the Belgrade-born player, who has previously lifted five Grand Slams, three at the Australian Open (2008, 2011 and 2012), one at Wimbledon (2011) and one at the US Open (2011).

It must be remembered that since A The fastest land than usual, which gave the car fewer gears. antiquitiesThe more attacking players will benefit from the unusual conditions, especially the Swiss Roger Federer And the American Serena WilliamsWhich will be crowned in the Spanish capital.

Immediately afterwards, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced Blue brick dust will be blocked as a surface. Despite its short existence, the innovative change would mark a milestone in modern tennis history.