SLAM into France: Tennis French Open at Roland-Garros

The iconic Roland-Garros Paris stadium is the midst of a major overhaul, to increase capacity on the central court and add a swathe of new attractions for visiting tennis fans.

As one of the world’s top four Grand Slam tournaments, the French Open Roland-Garros is arguably on the bucket list of any tennis fans.

The atmosphere is subtly fashionable, for one. Fans are much more likely to flaunt cult streetwear labels than, say, the Australian Open crowds (who love their wild body paint) or Wimbledon (eccentric headgear). Players also go to great lengths to impress, as revealed by zebra-stripe trend of two years back.

Tennis SLAM into France
®Amelie Laurin-FFT. Ecran, Internationaux de France, 2016

In fact, the French Open has launched some of the most memorable sportswear trends over the years. From argyle print and pinstripes in the 1970s to the day-glo colours and high-tech fabrics of late, competitors have embraced the tournament’s rejection of traditional all-white tennis garb.

But perhaps the tournament’s greatest claim to fame is its status as the only Grand Slam played on a clay court, which demands a different focus from players more used to synthetic surfaces or glass courts. Its extra slip factor makes for compelling viewing, and might be the reason the French Open is the most televised of all Grand Slams. It attracts 20 million television viewers globally, and half a million visitors on site for its two-week duration each May and June.

Tennis Grand Open
®Christophe Saidi-¡FFT. Gael Monfils, Court Suzanne Lenglen, Internationaux de France, 2014

The Stade Roland-Garros (External link) has been overhauled several times since opening in 1928. The last renovation in 2018 was perhaps the most ambitious yet: in the main stadium (also called Court Central), a high-tech retractable roof was installed. Roland-Garros has also opened an additional 5,000-seat stadium on a newly annexed area. This is right inside the Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil botanical garden. Visitors are now able to admire its four vintage greenhouses, and stop to smell its gracious flowers en route to their game.
It’s definitely a space to watch for 2020!

Watch the famous Roland-Garros (the French Tennis Open) from the 21st September to the 14th October 2020
More information on https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ (External link)

Stay at the beautiful Molitor hotel

Molitor (External link) is considered a destination in itself for those looking to be immersed in a hotel rich in arts, culture and wellness. Located in western Paris in the 16th Arrondissement adjacent to the prestigious Roland-Garros tennis-courts, it is located in a perfect spot for sports fans.
Picture it: after a day of walking the alleys of Roland-Garros and watch the best players in the world, walk back to Molitor and enjoy its pools, spa the splendid roof-terrace, known as being one of the best in Paris. Serving food and cocktails with stunning views across the sparkling lights of the city with the Eiffel Tower on the horizon, the terrace is a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike. Overlooking both the city below as well as our outdoor pool, visitors you will be able to enjoy the relaxed vibes of this chilled-out suntrap whilst sampling an extensive gourmet menu.
Find out more at https://www.mltr.fr/en (External link)

Molitor Hotel Paris (External link)

Tennis Ball Roland Garros 2021 milieu

Click here to participate to the Roland Garros Tennis French Competition 2021 to win a a Lacoste Voucher and a ultimate Roland Garros hamper!

Roland Garros Competition Click here

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