Rain delays start of action at French Open

Paris: Torrential rain delayed the start of quarter-final action on day 11 of the French Open on Wednesday.

Italy`s Sara Errani, runner-up in 2012, and German 28th seed Andrea Petkovic were due to open proceedings on Philippe Chatrier Court at 1400 local time (1200 GMT) but the downpour meant they could be in for a long wait in the locker room. Svetlana Kuznetsova, champion in 2009, is due to take on the highest ranked player left in the women`s draw, fourth seeded Romanian Simona Halep, on Suzanne Lenglen Court. Rafa Nadal will also be eager to get on court to continue his pursuit of a record-extending ninth French Open crown and will face fellow Spaniard David Ferrer, the man he beat in last year`s final. Frenchman Gael Monfils will be able to draw on the support of 15,000 fans when he takes on Wimbledon champion Andy Murray.