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World number two Novak Djokovic believes that hard court tournaments should install roof on their show courts as it would save a lot of time for the players.
The Serbian is currently competing at the Rogers Cup in Toronto. The event has been hit by rain stoppages throughout the week.
In a match that was suspended twice due to showers on Saturday, Djokovic defeated his compatriot Janko Tipsarevic in straight sets 6-4, 6-1 to reach the final.
At first the match was delayed for an hour and 30 minutes before its start. Then play was stopped for an hour when it started to rain during the first set.
Talking to reporters after the match, Djokovic said, “I don’t see any reason why hard court tournament don’t have covers on their courts. And I think this tournament, after this year’s experience should strongly consider covers for next year. If they inflate the covers, like they do on Wimbledon for example, it saves us time.”
All the third round matches were called off on Thursday due to continuous rain throughout the day. As a result some players were forced to contest two matches on Friday. First they finished their third round matches and those who won played their quarter-finals later in the day.
Just two of the four Grand Slams have retractable roof on their show courts. Australian Open’s Rod Laver Arena has a retractable roof since 1988. Wimbledon’s organizers followed then and installed one in 2009 on their Center Court.
Retractable roofs are beneficial for all parties including players, fans and organizers. Time of players is saved and they do not have to warm up again and again when play is restarted after rain stops. Organizers get benefit as their sponsors remain happy due to continuous broadcast of live matches. Fans also stay content as they can enjoy watching their favorite players in continuous action.
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