Rafael Nadal has revealed that he has requested not to be officiated by umpire Carlos Bernardes at the French Open at Roland Garros.
The Spaniard was involved in a spat with Bernardes at the Rio Open in February, with the umpire handing Nadal two time violations in his eventual defeat to Fabio Fognini.
Nadal, who was eager to change his shorts having put them on the wrong way round, has since reported the incident to the ATP and has not had a match overseen by the official since.
"Yes, it was my request. I asked if it's possible, but nothing personal against him 100%, I respect him as an umpire, I respect him as a person, and I consider him a good person," Nadal told reporters.
"I am not happy with that situation, that's the first thing, because I would love to have Bernardes on the court again. It will happen, but I think for both of us it is better to have a break. We had some problems. For me he was not respectful enough with me in Rio de Janeiro.
"That was my feeling when I put my shorts the other way. I think it does not show respect because I cannot play a full game with the shorts the other way. So it's better to be away for a while. That's all."
Nine-time French Open champion Nadal beat Quentin Halys in straight sets this afternoon to set up a second-round clash with compatriot Nicolas Almagro.
Barney Corkhill
