Paris: Play finally started at the French Open after torrential rain delayed the start of quarter-final action by almost three hours on day 11 of the French Open on Wednesday.
Italy’s Sara Errani, runner-up in 2012, and German 28th seed Andrea Petkovic opened proceedings on Philippe Chatrier Court.
Russian Svetlana Kuznetsova, champion in 2009, faced the highest ranked player left in the women’s draw, fourth seeded Romanian Simona Halep, on Suzanne Lenglen Court.
Further showers are forecast for Wednesday which might cause havoc with the schedule as Rafa Nadal is due to face fellow Spaniard David Ferrer, the man he beat in last year’s final.
When it’s raining at the French Open, spectators have more options than the players.
While the start of play in Wednesday’s quarter-finals was being delayed by a downpour, Wimbledon champion Andy Murray chatted with members of his entourage in the players’ lounge in the main stadium.
Sara Errani, the 2012 runner-up in singles at Roland Garros, hung out with doubles partner Roberta Vinci in the dressing room — Vinci posted a photo on Twitter to prove it.
Some fans, meanwhile, sought shelter inside shops selling tennis gear. Others lined up at various food stands. And some found their way to the French Tennis Federation museum on the grounds.
Those craving for tennis action braved the rain while watching a videoboard outside Court Suzanne Lenglen that showed highlights of Tuesday’s quarter-final between Ernests Gulbis and Tomas Berdych.
