"Bercy was legendary": Arthur Rinderknech's strong words on the new setup of the Rolex Paris Masters

After winning his first-round match in Paris, the Frenchman shone on the court before praising the "magnificent conditions" of the new arena… while also reminding everyone that Bercy will forever remain "legendary."

In his first match since his final in Shanghai, Arthur Rinderknech cleared the Fabian Marozsan hurdle in two tie-breaks (7-6, 7-6) at the Rolex Paris Masters.

During the press conference, the French No. 1 took the time to discuss the tournament's relocation from Bercy to the Paris La Défense Arena.

"It's not the same, it will never be like Bercy. Bercy was legendary with its history and everything that happened there. But the crowd is the same, the atmosphere is the same, the colors are identical, the conditions are too.

The new arena is magnificent, as is the center court. The music and lights that accompany you during the (court) entrance are fantastic. We can only be happy to benefit from these excellent conditions," stated Rinderknech.