Rafael Nadal is set to lock horns with his great rival Novak Djokovic in a blockbuster quarterfinal at the 2022 Roland Garros, but the murmur coming out from his camp suggests he is not happy.
On Monday, the tournament organizers confirmed that the 59th heavyweight meeting between 13-time French Open champion Nadal and defending champion Djokovic would take place in Tuesday's night session on Court Philippe Chatrier.
In recent days, we've heard Alexander Zverev being very categorical of the tournament's favoritism to Carlos Alcaraz by scheduling his matches on the main court and twice at night. But not many players, including Nadal, are fond of the night session.
The Spaniard has stated that he dislikes playing at night as it can negatively impact his game and tactical approach. He opined that the high humidity and slower ball generally make his game less effective than it usually is under the baking sun.
It's an even more complicated issue as Nadal will be up against Novak Djokovic, who enjoys playing longer rallies and can hang with the 21-time Grand Slam champion. The Serbian didn't hide from the fact that he would prefer a night match.
Apparently, Nadal appears to have lodged his request for a day match against Djokovic if his coach, Carlos Moya's words to RMC Sport are anything to go by. The 45-year-old believes his countryman has "credit" at this tournament and should be listened to when he makes valid requests.
"I wouldn't say disrespect, but here at Roland-Garros, Rafa has credit. He has won the tournament 13 times, and if he has a request, you should listen to him. He is part of the history of Roland-Garros."
"We know that nobody is bigger than [the tournament], nobody is bigger than the Grand Slam, but in the end, it is a question of business and we understand that."
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