Why is Amelie Mauresmo Defending the French Open's Night Session Policy?
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Synopsis
In a controversial defense of the French Open's night session scheduling, Amelie Mauresmo addresses criticisms from star players like Coco Gauff and Ons Jabeur. This article delves into the ongoing debate over gender representation in tennis and Mauresmo's reasoning behind the tournament's choices, sparking conversation among fans and players alike.
Key Takeaways
- Amelie Mauresmo defends the scheduling of night sessions.
- All six night matches in 2025 have featured men's singles.
- Women's matches have faced criticism for lack of representation.
- Scheduling decisions are influenced by match duration.
- Mauresmo emphasizes the importance of audience expectations.
New Delhi, May 30 (NationPress) Roland-Garros tournament director Amelie Mauresmo has come to the defense of the French Open's choice to give precedence to men’s matches during the esteemed night sessions at Court Philippe-Chatrier, amidst significant criticism from WTA athletes such as Coco Gauff and Ons Jabeur.
To date, all six night matches at the 2025 French Open have showcased men’s singles contests. This ongoing trend has sparked a backlash, as women’s tennis continues to miss the prime-time limelight under the Parisian lights. Since the introduction of this format in 2021, only four women’s matches have been allocated to the night session.
World No. 3 Ons Jabeur expressed her discontent earlier this week, stating, “I don’t think they have daughters,” referring to the scheduling choices. Fellow American star Coco Gauff shared similar frustrations regarding the underrepresentation of women’s tennis in evening showcases.
However, Mauresmo, a former world No. 1, staunchly defended the tournament's position. In a media interaction, she remarked, “We have one single match per night session. It hasn't changed. Therefore, we won't alter everything again.”
She elaborated that the length of matches significantly influences scheduling, pointing out that the men’s best-of-five format guarantees longer games and greater value for fans purchasing tickets for the night slot. “The playtime is also considered, including potential playtime, given that we can’t plan ahead, whether it’s for women’s or men’s tennis,” she stated.
“We must also consider the 15,000 spectators attending the night session. Since men’s tennis is played in best-of-five sets, a minimum of three sets will be played. It complicates matters for us to proceed otherwise.”
On Thursday night, British No. 1 Jack Draper’s four-set victory over Gaël Monfils—lasting over three hours—marked yet another men’s matchup under the lights, underscoring the gender disparity in scheduling.
When questioned whether the consistent exclusion of women’s matches from the night session communicates that women are “not worthy,” Mauresmo categorically refuted such an implication.
“That’s not what we’re implying. I must stop you right there,” she firmly responded. “For me, the message remains unchanged, and it has never been that the girls are unworthy of playing at night. That has never been the case. I won’t accept that you convey this notion. It’s very clear to me.”
Point of View
I recognize the complexities surrounding the scheduling decisions at prestigious events like the French Open. While the intention may be to cater to audience demands and match formats, the ongoing discussions highlight the need for equitable representation of women's tennis in prime-time slots. It's crucial to strike a balance that honors both the sport and its diverse athletes.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are men's matches prioritized in the night sessions?
Men's matches are prioritized due to their best-of-five set format, which generally leads to longer matches, providing better value for night session ticket holders.
What was the reaction from women's players?
Players like Ons Jabeur and Coco Gauff expressed frustration, highlighting the lack of representation for women's matches in prime-time slots.
How many women's matches have been scheduled in night sessions?
Since the night session format was introduced in 2021, only four women's matches have been scheduled.
What does Amelie Mauresmo say about the exclusion of women's matches?
Mauresmo firmly denies that the exclusion suggests women are 'not worthy', emphasizing that the scheduling is based on logistical considerations.
Is there a plan to change the night session policy?
Mauresmo indicated that there are no plans to change the current policy, as it has remained consistent since its inception.
