Bloodhound Ferrer ignores title scent

If you want colour or controversy at the French Open, go to Rafael Nadal, who’ll criticise the schedule, or consult Maria Sharapova for views on officiating and candy. Serena Williams will hand you a line on painting, Novak Djokovic may or may not don a Yannick Noah wig if he wins the title while Roger Federer will tell you in three languages his thoughts on plans for a tennis premier league.

Just don’t ask world number five David Ferrer, unless it’s for his opinions of a match just played or a match to be played. Widely-regarded as currently the best player -- and nicest -- never to have won a Grand Slam, but with the misfortune to be plying his trade in an era dominated by Djokovic, Federer and Nadal, the 31-year-old feels no bitterness.

‘Tennis doesn’t owe me anything. Tennis is one of the fairest sports. It’s given me so many extraordinary feelings,’ said Ferrer. It’s not a question of being able to or not being able to. I always try and do my best and put out the best and find the best in me, as well. But I’m not thinking about it beforehand.’