Djokovic's Roof Requests at Roland Garros: Safety First or Strategic Advantage?

Novak Djokovic's Roland Garros Roof Requests: Safety, Strategy, or Something Else? Novak Djokovic, the renowned tennis star, frequently requests that the roof be closed during his matches at Roland Garros. This practice has sparked curiosity among fans and experts alike. Diario Sport's recent video sheds light on Djokovic's rationale, citing three key factors. First, safety is paramount. Djokovic suffered a knee injury in 2024, partly attributed to the slippery conditions of wet clay courts. 'In tierra batida húmeda, la pista se vuelve muy resbaladiza,' explains the video, translating to 'On wet clay, the court becomes very slippery.' Second, eliminating wind's impact improves gameplay. A closed roof creates more stable conditions, reducing unpredictable ball bounces and enhancing Djokovic's performance. Third, a consistent environment allows for better focus and strategy. The video concludes by questioning whether players or referees should have the final say on roof closures, adding a layer of debate to the discussion. This highlights the complexities surrounding the issue and invites further discussion on fairness and player autonomy in professional tennis.