By Rafael Nadal in action at the French Open
Photo : AP
Pickleball has been a growing phenomenon in the last few months. The racquet sport has attracted a lot of investments as it is tipped to be the next big thing in the next few years.
Pickleball has generated ample interest among people and even professional tennis players have switched their allegiance to this sport very recently
Pickleball’s growing attention prompted the Fédération Française de Tennis to set up a pickleball court during the French Open which is scheduled to start on May 26 and. Spectators will have the chance to get a glimpse of the sport as pickleball has recently seen its incorporation by the FFT.
On the north forecourt of Philippe-Chatrier court, a pickleball court will be built from May 26 to June 1 where the spectators will get a taste of the game. During the last four days of the tournament, another court will come up on Court 5.
Among other features, the Rolland Garros will also witness the addition of another retractable roof on the Suzanne-Lenglen court which will enable the tournament authorities to let tennis take its normal course during adverse weather conditions. The court will also be fitted with LED lights during the upcoming edition.
During the press conference, former French tennis player Amelie Mauresmo said, “It will allow us to keep playing if the weather is bad and welcome 25,000 people.”
“We will host two games instead of one which will give us a little bit more flexibility in our schedule”.
Rafael Nadal is expected to take part in the French Open. The 14 times Rolland Garros champion has struggled due to his persistent injury issues in recent times and he will likely have a last shot on the clay court.
