Amelie Mauresmo Clarifies Controversy: Her Take on Roland Garros Night Sessions at the 2025 French Open

The French Open night sessions, introduced in 2021, feature only one singles match on Court Philippe Chatrier. Interestingly, the last time a women’s singles match took this primetime slot was in 2023. Since then, all 19 night sessions have showcased men’s singles matches, which are played over five sets. In four years, only four matches from the women’s draw have been included.

This sparks ongoing debate about equality in sports, especially concerning the promotion of women’s tennis at such a prestigious tournament. Experts suggest that the lack of women’s matches at night might stem from concerns about the match duration. Former tennis player Amélie Mauresmo has pointed out that women’s matches can finish more quickly, possibly affecting scheduling. "We only have one single match per night session… We won’t change everything again," she stated.

Mauresmo expressed that the tournament aims to avoid late finishes, which have been an issue at other Grand Slams like the Australian Open and US Open. She highlighted a match featuring Gael Monfils and Jack Draper that wrapped up at 23:45, drawing attention to how a packed crowd makes the night session successful.

While Mauresmo acknowledges the need for careful scheduling, many argue that the tournament should do more to support women’s tennis. Social media reactions often reflect this sentiment, with fans calling for more visibility for female players.

Historically, women’s tennis has fought for recognition, facing numerous barriers to equal footing. According to a recent report from the Women’s Sports Foundation, female athletes still receive less media coverage than their male counterparts. Increasing visibility for women’s matches not only empowers athletes but can also attract a wider audience, potentially boosting overall interest in the sport.

As the discussions continue, it’s clear that the future of women’s tennis at major tournaments, including the French Open, remains a vital topic in the pursuit of equality in sports.

For more insights about gender equality in sports, you can refer to reports from the Women’s Sports Foundation.

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