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Night‑time bias sparks women's outcry at French Open

BBC Sport •
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The French Open has scheduled every primetime slot on Court Philippe Chatrier for men since night sessions began in 2021. In 32 consecutive evenings no women's match has appeared, and the last night‑time women's contest was in 2023. Four‑time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka remarked she no longer associates Roland Garros with night tennis. Broadcasters in Europe and the United States argue the omission significantly limits viewership growth for women’s tennis.

Players have repeatedly pressed the issue. World No.5 Jessica Pegula described fighting “a wall” over night‑time exposure, while two‑time Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur asked whether the decision‑makers “have daughters.” Former champion Jelena Ostapenko recalled her 2022 night match and urged organisers to give women the “full stadium” atmosphere they deserve.

WTA chief executive Valerie Camillo confronted tournament director Amélie Mauresmo this week, demanding a schedule that reflects women’s “most exciting and dynamic competition.” Mauresmo defended the policy, citing short two‑set matches and ticket values from €60 to €280 as insufficient for prime‑time billing. With Osaka set to face Aryna Sabalenka in the round of the sixteen, the night‑slot debate remains unresolved.