Nadal hits out over packed European tournament schedule
Thursday, 01 May 2008 20:25
Rafael Nadal unhappy with tennis chiefs
French Open champion Rafael Nadal has lashed out at tennis officials for congesting this time of the year with key events.
The world number two, who beat Feliciano Lopez 6-4 6-3 in the third round of the Barcelona Open today, won the Monte Carlo Masters on Sunday and will play in Hamburg and Rome before the start of the French Open on may 25.
"These people (tennis chiefs) are destroying Europe and Europe used to be the foundation of the tour," said Nadal.
"I think it's completely impossible to play at one's best level for all four tournaments - Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Rome and Hamburg.
"You just have to accept this situation, all the players will be the same, they will not be able to play at their high level for all four, I think it's totally impossible."
Nadal admitted that he has had conversations with tour officials regarding the situation but said they "end up doing what they like and I am getting tired of it all".
Tour officials have had to reschedule a number of tournaments due to the Olympics in the summer, where a number of players, including Nadal are expected to compete.
American star James Blake described the Olympics as a "unique experience" but felt that other tournaments, like the Davis Cup, could be sacrificed in Olympic years.