Hard work always has its rewards. After a huge effort to make its courts first-class, the Mutua Madrid Open can now boast the best on tour. That is how the players see it and they were happy to call today’s courts the best in the world.

In 2015, during the final days of the tournament, all the players agreed on one thing: Madrid’s current clay courts are of an unbeatable standard.

“For about three years now there have been no better clay courts in the world. None”, stated Rafael Nadal, a four-time champion of the tournament. “All the courts are very similar because they are very well looked after. I think they have done a very good job. As far as I am concerned, and I think in this case I can speak for all the players, we should be thankful for all the hard work that they have done”, said the winner of 14 majors.

The Mallorcan, who is bidding to reach his seventh final on the Caja Mágica clay this year, highlighted the good work carried out by the organisers to ensure they have the best clay courts on tour. “The courts have been very well looked after in recent years and it is a very positive thing for all the players, also for the fans and for everyone in general. I have to say they have done a great job”.