Women Overlooked for Night Matches at French Open: A Continuing Debate
32 and counting - why are women overlooked for French Open night matches?
Image: The Bbc
The French Open has not featured a women's match in its prime night slots since 2023, despite calls for change from players like Naomi Osaka and Ons Jabeur. The tournament director cites concerns over match duration, while the WTA chief seeks to address the issue with organizers. The debate continues as women's tennis remains sidelined.
- 01No women's matches have been scheduled for the French Open night sessions since 2023, with men dominating the 32 primetime slots.
- 02Only four of the 60 night slots on Court Philippe Chatrier have featured women's matches since their introduction in 2021.
- 03WTA chief Valerie Camillo has raised concerns with tournament director Amelie Mauresmo about the lack of representation of women's tennis.
- 04Mauresmo argues that the potential for shorter women's matches affects scheduling decisions, fearing they may not provide good value for ticket buyers.
- 05Players like Jelena Ostapenko and Jessica Pegula have expressed frustration over the persistent gender disparity in match scheduling.
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The French Open continues to face criticism for its decision to allocate all night match slots to male players, having not featured a women's match in this coveted time since 2023. The tournament has hosted 32 consecutive primetime sessions for men, raising concerns among players and advocates for women's tennis. Notably, only four of the 60 night slots on Court Philippe Chatrier have showcased women's matches since the introduction of the single-match night sessions in 2021. Prominent players, including Naomi Osaka and Ons Jabeur, have voiced their disappointment, questioning the decision-makers' commitment to gender equality in the sport. WTA chief Valerie Camillo has sought discussions with tournament director Amelie Mauresmo, emphasizing the need for greater representation of women's matches. Mauresmo has defended the current scheduling, citing concerns that shorter women's matches may not provide value for spectators. As the debate continues, the future of women's representation in night matches at the French Open remains uncertain.
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The lack of women's matches in prime time affects visibility and sponsorship opportunities for female athletes.
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