Perhaps no one is a better choice to 'break-in' the new clay courts of the revamped Court Philippe Chatrier than current world no. 2, Rafael Nadal as he begins his run for a historic 12th French Open title.
The Spaniard is looking every part of an 11-time Roland-Garros champion as he made quick work of his round-of-128 match with German Yannick Hanfmann: 6-2, 6-1, 6-3. Afterwards, world number 1 Novak Djokovic also gave an almost exact performance, dismantling Hubert Hurkacz in three sets: 6-4, 6-2, 6-2. Seems like both competitors are coming in at the top of their game. This is a very welcome sign, especially for Nadal, who has been riddled with injuries since the beginning of the year.
However, the fanfare was without controversy as a rather literally eye-catching thing in the middle of the court has caught everyone's attention: Rafa's Volt Glow Nike Tennis top.
How does a harmless tennis shirt become the centre of a bizarre controversy you ask?
The bright yellow-green coloured fabric looks too similar to the colour of the tennis balls, which may be a cause for unnecessary distraction to his opponent, Hanfmann.
Fans took to social media to air out their opinions and questions about the legality of his shirt's colour. Some even thought the colour should be banned.
Although this has been quite a talking point to start the 2019 French Open, this is far from the only outfit controversy at Roland Garros. In the same year, fellow tennis great Roger Federer also caused a few fans to fume over his "ugliest outfit ever". Meanwhile, over at the ladies' side, people are divided over women's tennis GOAT Serena Williams on-court fashion statement.
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