The French Open, or Roland-Garros, is the second annual Grand Slam tournament in tennis. A two-week-long tournament organized in May every year, it consists of singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events. Moreover, it is the only premier clay-court tournament in tennis and carries a unique history.

Established in 1891, the French International Championships, the tournament’s official name in English, was primarily open to just French club members. But a few decades later, from 1925, it allowed entry to international players. Notably, in 1925 and 1927, the Stade Francais in Saint-Cloud hosted the tournament.

Remarkably, the French won the Davis Cup in 1927 and hoped to defend it on their home soil. For this matter, a new stadium, State de Roland Garros, named after a World War I aviator, came into the picture. The French International Championships shifted there on May 24, 1928, and it hasn’t changed the location since.

In 1968, the tournament became open to amateurs and professionals and soon gained popularity as the French Open in English-speaking countries. Even in 2021, State de Roland Garros, Paris, France, will host the French Grand Slam tournament.

Read More: French Open History: What was the Grand Slam Known as Before

Is Roland Garros in Paris?

State de Roland Garros is standing on the western outskirts of Paris, France; eight kilometers separates the stadium from the city.

Unquestionably, it is one of the most visited tourist sights every year. Its profound architectural design resonates with the history of the stadium.

Additionally, Roland-Garros stadium has three clay courts stadium; Court Philippe Chatrier is the center court. It is the stadium where all finals take place.

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Read More: Why Is the French Open Also Referred as Roland-Garros?

Why do players love playing at the French Open?

First and foremost, it is the rich history of the tournament that is more appealing to professionals than other events. Also, it is the only clay-court Grand Slam tournament; thus, players require an ulterior approach to win Roland-Garros.

Moreover, experts suggest that Roland-Garros is the most physically demanding tournament in tennis. Due to its slow pace and higher bounce, every aspect of a player’s ability comes to test on its red soil.

As of now, the Spanish great Rafael Nadal has won a record 13-time French Open titles. He will be looking for his overall 21st Grand Slam title at Roland-Garros 2021.

How fascinated are you with the history of Roland-Garros?

Also Read: Who Was the Last Player to Defeat Rafael Nadal at French Open?