Key quotes from the first day of the French Open at Roland Garros on Sunday highlighted the impact of war on tennis players and the unique skills required to excel on clay courts.
Marta Kostyuk spoke about the massive bombardment carried out by Russia on the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv, saying that many of her friends were trying to recover from the trauma.
She also shared her thoughts on choosing when to attempt an underarm serve, saying that it was a good moment to do it.
Alexander Zverev explained that European players are better on clay because they grew up on it and are naturally more comfortable sliding on the slippery surface.
Marco Trungelliti, who is enjoying success at 36, said that his case is different from other older players, and that he is reaching his peak at an age when most players are slowing down.
Hailey Baptiste expressed her excitement about playing doubles with 45-year-old tennis legend Venus Williams, saying that they can do well together.
