French Open Start Delayed One Week

April 8, 2021 | By New York Tennis Magazine Staff
01_crop for web
Photo Credit: Seth Sarelson

 

The French Tennis Federation (FTT) has announced that the 2021 French Open will be delayed by one week, pushing the main draw start date back from May 23 to May 30.

The event’s qualifying tournament will begin on May 24.

“In agreement with the French public authorities and the governing bodies of international tennis, the French Tennis Federation made the responsible decision to postpone the 2021 Roland-Garros tournament by one week, which will now be held from 24 May to 13 June,” Roland Garros said in a statement. “This 2021 edition of Roland-Garros, aims at maximising the chances—for the players and for the overall tennis community—that the tournament is played in front of the largest possible number of fans, while guaranteeing health and safety. Regarding both objectives, every week is important and can make a difference.”

The push back comes after the French government issues a third national lockdown, which began on April 8 and is supposed to last through the end of the month, but could possibly be extended beyond that.

The week-delay could have an impact on the grass-court season, but the Grand Slam board supports the French Open decision.

“This decision has been discussed with the Grand Slam Board, and, given the exceptional circumstances, is fully supported by the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the US Open,” read a statement from Wimbledon, written on behalf of all four Grand Slam chairmen and presidents.

 

 


New York Tennis Magazine Staff
Oneononedoubles banner art resize
USTA NTC

January/February 2024 Digital Edition