32 and counting - why are women overlooked for French Open night matches?
Summary
At the French Open tennis tournament, no women's matches have been scheduled in the popular night-time sessions since 2023. This has raised concerns among players and officials about the fairness of match scheduling and the visibility of women's tennis during prime viewing times.Key Facts
- The French Open has held 32 night sessions in a row, all featuring men's matches.
- Only four women's matches have been played during night sessions since they started in 2021.
- Prominent female players like Naomi Osaka, Jessica Pegula, and Ons Jabeur have spoken out about the lack of night matches for women.
- Jelena Ostapenko, a former French Open women's champion, said women deserve more prime-time matches.
- WTA chief executive Valerie Camillo met with French Open director Amelie Mauresmo to discuss these concerns.
- Mauresmo said the risk of women's matches ending quickly is a reason for not scheduling more at night, citing concerns about ticket value.
- The tournament refuses to extend night sessions to include multiple matches to avoid late finishes.
- A high-profile women's match between Naomi Osaka and Aryna Sabalenka might be considered for a night slot, but it is uncertain.
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