The courts were too fast": Pioline reveals the behind-the-scenes of the surface slowdown at the Rolex Paris Masters

Following specific feedback concerning the 2024 edition, tournament director Cédric Pioline decided to act. Slowed surface, rethought conditions, consultation with the ATP: the Frenchman reveals the precise reasons for this transformation.

For its 39th edition, the Rolex Paris Masters has undergone major changes. Firstly, a move from Bercy to Paris La Défense Arena, allowing for a more imposing center court, but also for secondary courts that meet the standards imposed by the ATP.

The second change concerns the surface, which has been slowed down compared to last year. Carlos Alcaraz, world No. 1, shared his feelings yesterday, indicating that the conditions were more conducive to "seeing real tennis."

Speaking to journalists, tournament director Cédric Pioline explained the reason behind this court slowdown:

"The surface is slower than last year. It was our wish to slow it down. The players have noticed it and seem satisfied. That is important for us.

There is never really a consensus. Not all players have the same opinion. But we tried to find the broadest possible consensus with the greatest number of players.

[…] We also listen to the feedback from the ATP, since they are the ones organizing this tournament. They commented that the courts for the 2024 edition were too fast. We tried to adapt, to change. We will see if we have managed to find the right speed for this edition.

We also have a resin surface that becomes smoother and smoother as we play. Between the start of the tournament and the days that follow, the difference is striking."

Behind this decision also lies a desire to be in line with the surface of the ATP Finals, which begin two weeks after the Paris final:

"The players who are involved need to have similar playing conditions. The Masters is the last tournament of the year. It is a very important tournament for them.

We therefore seek to offer a surface speed suited to a wide variety of playing styles. Overall, playing surfaces tend to be slower throughout the year.