PARIS — Competitors at the French Open report that they haven’t faced such sweltering conditions at Roland Garros since the Paris Olympics.
Notably, the 2024 Olympics took place in July and August.
During the opening days of this iconic clay-court Grand Slam, temperatures surged to an uncharacteristic 33 degrees C (91 F) — well above the usual for late May in Paris. The forecast suggests this heatwave will persist throughout the first week of matches.
This sultry atmosphere not only poses challenges for fans and players alike but also accelerates the dynamics of the game, altering its tempo.
“It feels quite different. Perhaps it was this hot during the Olympics, but the balls were different, so I wouldn’t equate it with the same tournament,” remarked four-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek after dominating Emerson Jones 6-1, 6-2 in the first round on Monday.
To cope, players have resorted to placing ice packs around their necks during changeovers, while fans have sought relief under sprinklers.
Additionally, court staff have taken to playfully aiming hoses at spectators eagerly asking for a refreshing spritz.
“I can’t recall the last time it was this hot at Roland Garros,” reflected Australian player Daria Kasatkina after her 6-4, 6-4 victory over Zeynep Sonmez. “Maybe once before. But it looks like we’re in for this heat all week.”
Kasatkina pointed out that the draining heat leads to unpredictable match dynamics.
“You might rise from the bench and suddenly realize your focus has slipped,” she noted. “It’s a mental battle that you also need to win… The player who best adapts to these conditions comes out on top.”
Medical Interventions and Retirements
Canadian player Gabriel Diallo cited the heat as his primary reason for retiring mid-match against James Duckworth on Sunday.
Both Andrey Rublev and his opponent Ignacio Buse called for medical assistance during the second set of their grueling 3-hour, 39-minute clash, which Rublev ultimately won in four sets.
Buse received a medical timeout and had salts added to his hydration, while Rublev also sought treatment shortly after.
During the same match, a visibly fatigued ball girl required assistance off the court and received medical care.
Typically, the French Open experiences cooler temperatures compared to the scorching heat of the Australian Open and U.S. Open.
However, like its counterparts, the French Open has established an extreme weather policy.
Should the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT)—which considers factors such as heat, humidity, sun, and wind—reach 30.1 degrees C (86 F) or above, 10-minute cooling breaks can be implemented during women’s matches between the second and third sets, and for men’s matches between the third and fourth sets.
If the WBGT hits 32.2 C (90 F), play will be halted. For play to be suspended, temperatures would need to climb to approximately 38 C (100 F).
Hot Conditions Favor Some Players
Some players have welcomed the increase in temperature.
“I’ve always favored warm, vibrant conditions over chilly ones on clay, as it allows me to showcase a more diverse style of play,” stated Australian Alex de Minaur after defeating Toby Samuel 6-4, 6-4, 6-2.
“It’s easier to adopt an aggressive approach. The ball reacts well, and I don’t have to rely excessively on spin or heaviness; the conditions handle that for me. I enjoy the physicality of it, so the heat doesn’t bother me,” De Minaur added.
American player Alex Michelsen, who advanced past Alexander Shevchenko in straight sets, shared similar sentiments.
“This weather definitely favors us Americans. We typically excel with big serves and powerful groundstrokes, enjoying an offensive style. In such heat, the ball travels swiftly through the air, so I was excited when I saw the forecast,” Michelsen expressed.
