Carlos Bernardes: "The problem with tennis is time" — the confession of a legendary umpire
Carlos Bernardes, the man who saw tennis from the inside for 30 years
Carlos Bernardes is not a name like any other in the world of tennis.
For more than three decades, the Brazilian has been one of the most familiar faces on the circuit, seated in the umpire's chair for the biggest matches and a privileged witness to modern tennis history.
With Mohamed Lahyani, still active, he formed this duo of referees that were immediately recognizable, respected, and sometimes contested, but always central.
A peaceful retirement, but a clear-sighted reflection on the future of tennis
Since his official retirement in 2024, Bernardes has been enjoying a calmer life.
Gym, television, travel, a few appearances at ATP tournaments, and even assignments as a tournament director on the Challenger circuit.
But away from the courts, his perspective on tennis remains clear-sighted.
"The problem with tennis is time"
In an interview with Ubitennis, he shared his thoughts on the current limits of the sport, and especially on what could weaken it in the face of new generations.
"One of the main problems with tennis is time. A match can last 40 minutes or five hours. You never know when it starts or when it ends. Finding a solution to time would make tennis more attractive for future generations."
Experiments, but not yet the right answer
While some tournaments are already testing new formats, Bernardes, for his part, remains cautious, even skeptical.
"These are mostly demonstrations. Personally, I don't like them very much. All organizations must sit down together to find a solution, without changing the sport too much, but making it more attractive."
A strong message addressed to the ATP, the WTA, the Grand Slams and the governing bodies: the status quo is no longer an option.
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