Gilles Moretton, the head of French tennis, staunchly defended the fervent local supporters at Roland-Garros, likening their spirited enthusiasm to the crowds experienced at the Australian Open.
The crowd dynamics at Roland-Garros have garnered attention this year, following comments from Iga Swiatek and David Goffin about their experiences with fan behaviour in 2024, with Goffin remarking that the atmosphere “is becoming akin to football.”
Moretton also tackled criticisms aimed at French officials regarding the scheduling of men’s matches in the prime evening slot, while women’s matches have been slotted into the morning.
However, when questioned about whether French fans are rowdier than those at other tournaments, Moretton dismissed such claims.
“Are you referring to the French players? It was the same in Australia. I’ve been there,” remarked the chief of the French Tennis Federation.
“We have some fans who are truly passionate about tennis and possess a rich understanding of the game. They know when to cheer and when to hold back. That’s simply the French way. They rally behind their players.
“Perhaps they do make a bit more noise. We believe that lively atmosphere enhances tennis. If it crosses a line, we will intervene. I sincerely hope it doesn’t disturb the players too much. That’s just how it is.”
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Australian player Adam Walton, who is set to face German Maximillian Marterer in an opening round match on Tuesday night, echoed Moretton’s sentiments, recalling his experience of being targeted by the crowd when he played against Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech last year.
He mentioned that it’s perfectly normal for home crowds to support their local players and show some displeasure towards their opponents.
“At the Australian Open, I felt all the support, but here, it was quite the opposite,” he shared.
On the topic of men’s matches taking priority over women’s in the evening slots, Moretton stated that the tournament director, former world No.1 Amelie Mauresmo, has the responsibility to schedule the evening’s featured match appropriately.
The scheduling debate arises every year at each Grand Slam, and this year at Roland-Garros is no exception. Swiatek recently achieved her 22nd consecutive win at the venue in front of a sparse crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier Monday morning (local time).
“My stance hasn’t changed. I prefer playing during the day, so I’m pleased with the additional rest time,” Swiatek commented.
“However, some people seem to look for disparities between men and women. You can see that in the scheduling somewhat, and while you can pose those questions to us repeatedly, my responses will remain the same, so it doesn’t bother me.”
In the early matches, world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka played in the daytime, while former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin took to the main court for the midday match on Tuesday.
So far, all night slots have been occupied by men, including prime-time matches featuring American Ben Shelton and world No.1 Jannik Sinner.
French veteran Gael Monfils is set to play in the evening match on Tuesday (Wednesday morning AEST).
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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