Madrid Masters: Do you prefer blue or red courts?

Blue courts made a brief appearance on the Madrid Masters' clay surfaces in 2012, when Roger Federer won, before red made its return. What would you vote for?

La Pista Azul was a highly-controversial innovation by the tournament’s owner Ion Tiriac in the Spanish capital and although the 'Smurf' coloured surface looked pleasing to the eye, it was a different story for the professionals.

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic voiced their concerns with the potentially disruptive effects and for its unilateralism.

We look back at what players said about the surface...

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Rafael Nadal said: "This is about history, the earth is red, not blue. Tennis is not only about show-business, there are more things to appreciate, history and tradition."

Andy Murray said: "I’ve watched some matches in Madrid. It’s very difficult to see the ball. I understand the reasons for doing it. It makes the tournament unique and a bit different. Sometimes that’s good for the tour."

Ivo Karlovic tweeted: "Ha! Blue clay.. It looks like something Smurfs would play on."

This is about history, the earth is red, not blue. Tennis is not only about show-business, there are more things to appreciate, history and tradition.

Rafael Nadal said: "My thoughts haven't changed on the concept and organisation of this tournament.

"My criticism is not directed at the tournament but at the ATP, which should never have allowed such a change at a tournament of this scale."

Roger Federer said: "Does the younger generation need blue clay in order to get excited about tennis? I don’t know as I’ve not spoken to thousands and thousands of kids about it.

“We’ll soon hear the echoes from this week from players, fans and media."

Novak Djokovic said: "The only disappointing thing from a player standpoint is that it was decided without players agreeing to it.

"The hope of all players is that we won't have injuries."

I’ve watched some matches in Madrid. It’s very difficult to see the ball. I understand the reasons for doing it. It makes the tournament unique and a bit different. Sometimes that’s good for the tour.

Brad Drewett, former ATP official, said: "I very much believe in innovation and exploring ways to enhance our sport. While the blue clay may have offered better visibility on television, there were clearly issues with the quality of the courts in Madrid."

Sky Sports commentator Mark Petchey, said: "I thought the visual contrast would be stronger. I know the surface is getting the tournament talked about but I still feel it has been an own goal, because the top players – particularly the top men – have not come on board. If Tiriac carries on down this path next year, he can expect some high-profile absentees. I'll be staggered if we're not back to red clay in 12 months time."