Novak Djokovic’s late night/early morning finish of his third round match at the French Open has caught the attention of another former champion.
Coco Gauff said it was “not healthy” to play late into the night, noting that Djokovic’s win over Lorenzo Musetti didn’t finish until 3:07 a.m. local time on Sunday.
The incident occurred in a five-set match that began at 10:37 p.m. Saturday and lasted four hours and 29 minutes.
“I don’t think that’s healthy at all,” Gauff said. “It might be unfair to the players who have to play late because it messes with their schedule. I’ve been fortunate enough not to have to finish a match very late yet.”
And, she added, the players’ night doesn’t end when the game is over.
“A lot of times it feels like people think it’s over, but it’s actually [it’s] If it’s 3am [media responsibilities] “Then I’ll shower, eat and maybe get a treatment,” Gauff said, “so I probably won’t get to bed until 5 at the earliest, maybe 6, sometimes 7.”
Night matches at Roland Garros normally start at 8:15 p.m., but the schedule was delayed due to rain.
Gauff suggested there could be a rule preventing matches from starting after a certain time, but acknowledged that would be difficult.
“I think it’s something that should be considered,” Gauff said. “If the match is dragging on, maybe move the court. I know it’s difficult, especially here, it’s just one night and obviously the spectators are paying for a ticket. It’s complicated, but I think it’s in the best interest of the sport to avoid matches finishing or starting after a certain time, for the health and safety of the players. Of course, we can’t control when the match finishes.”
Djokovic declined to elaborate on his thoughts on the timing of the match after his win, but he didn’t seem too excited.
“I don’t want to talk about the schedule because both Lorenzo and I have been outstanding in our performances,” Djokovic said. “I think some things could have been handled differently, but there is also beauty in winning matches.” [so late]. “
