Bernabeu adds temporary clay court for Madrid Open
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- Bernabeu stadium will install a temporary clay practice court for the Madrid Open, available to players from 23‑26 April but not open to the public.
- Madrid Open will use the Bernabeu practice court, which mirrors the surfaces at the Caja Magica, the tournament’s main venue from 20 April to 3 May.
- Feliciano Lopez said the court is a “proper tennis court” for players, noting many coaches and athletes have contacted him after the announcement and emphasizing it isn’t just a marketing stunt.
- Real Madrid has no home football fixtures during the practice‑court window, though a Champions League quarter‑final could be scheduled for 28‑29 April if they advance.
- Feliciano Lopez (former world No 13) does not expect the Bernabeu to host tournament matches in the future, contrasting the venue with the Miami Open’s show court inside Hard Rock Stadium.
- Florentino Perez has long wanted tennis at the Bernabeu, even proposing a Nadal‑Federer exhibition in 2019, and the stadium’s modular pitch can be slid away and stored underground for such events.
- Bernabeu stadium will also host an NFL game later this year and has limited concerts after Taylor Swift’s 2024 shows, underscoring its multi‑sport, multi‑event flexibility.
Why it matters: The Madrid Open gains a dedicated practice surface that eases court congestion at the Caja Magica, while players benefit from a proper clay court in a high‑profile venue. Real Madrid leverages the Bernabeu’s adaptability for publicity and future non‑football events, though fans miss public access to the sessions.
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