Out of step: How Roland Garros’ reluctance could leave it behind
TL;DR
The French Open faces criticism as its chief accuses players of not contributing to tournament improvements. With the event approaching, the excitement from last year's thrilling final remains fresh in fans' minds.
Key points
- French Open chief criticizes players for lack of support
- Tournament excitement remains after last year's final
- Carlos Alcaraz won his fifth Grand Slam title
Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
French Open chief accuses players of ‘refusing’ to help the tournament improve
The French Open is now only a month away, and while it might be hard to top last year’s excitement, there’s still plenty to look forward to.
Many fans will remember what a thrilling final between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard saved three match points before fighting back to win in five sets, giving him his fifth Grand Slam title.
The 2025 women’s final was just as exciting, with Coco Gauff coming from behind to beat Aryna Sabalenka, winning her second major at just 21 years old.
Trying to match the quality of those finals will be tough this year. Even so, the tournament can still improve in other areas – though not everyone seems on board with how things are going.
Photo by Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Amelie Mauresmo raises concerns over Roland Garros direction
Amelie Mauresmo has shared her opinion on why she believes the future of Roland Garros should lean more towards tradition than innovation. The 2026 season began with a unique new concept at the Australian Open called The One Point Slam.
The event, held at Rod Laver Arena just before the main draw, featured both pros and amateurs competing in a knockout tournament where each match was decided by a single point. The winner walked away with A$1 million.
What started out as something that looked like a gimmick turned into an interesting event, with Sydney amateur Jordan Smith defeating Sinner and Amanda Anisimova on his way to winning the title and the prize money.
The idea seemed to click with fans on social media, generating plenty of buzz. When asked whether Roland Garros would consider adopting a similar event, tournament director Amelie Mauresmo was quick to rule it out.
“I believe our DNA, our ambitions are not necessarily to follow what others are doing, for one thing,” she said. “It’s also not about chasing buzz at all costs. We’re more about authenticity; we’re rooted in our traditions.”
Mauresmo’s comments split opinion in tennis circles. Some praised her commitment to maintaining tradition, while others pointed out that this mindset is exactly what has been holding tennis back from evolving.
Tennis hasn’t always been quick to embrace new ideas compared to other sports. Innovations like the Laver Cup or now the One Point Slam often meet resistance from those worried about changing what they see as sacred traditions.
Although Grand Slams have introduced changes such as electronic line calling and courtside coaching pods in recent years, critics argue that these steps aren’t enough.
While Roland Garros isn’t under any pressure to replicate the One Point Slam immediately, dismissing it entirely as simply chasing hype may be too shortsighted for some people who want more innovation in tennis.
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Q&A
What are the main criticisms directed at the French Open ahead of the tournament?
The French Open chief has accused players of refusing to help improve the tournament, highlighting a lack of collaboration.
Who won the last French Open final and what was notable about the match?
Carlos Alcaraz won the last French Open final against Jannik Sinner, saving three match points in a thrilling five-set match.
When does the French Open take place this year?
The French Open is scheduled to take place in just a month, with anticipation building among fans.
