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Roland-Garros to Retain Human Line Judges, Bucking Trend of Electronic Officiating
PARIS (AP) — Roland-Garros will remain the only Grand Slam tournament to forgo electronic line calling, the French Tennis Federation (FFT) announced Thursday. Organizers are committed to retaining human line judges, emphasizing France’s role as a leading provider of officials for global tennis events.
French Open Stands alone: Commitment to Tradition
While the Australian Open and US Open adopted electronic line calling in 2021, and Wimbledon will implement it this year, Roland-Garros will stick with tradition.the decision comes after the ATP eliminated line judges from the main men’s circuit on January 1.
Player Input Could Influence Future Change
Tournament organizers acknowledged that a unanimous demand from players could prompt a change in the future, but currently, there is no overwhelming support for electronic line calling on clay courts.
Tributes Planned for Nadal,Gasquet
The tournament will honor Rafael Nadal,a 14-time champion who retired in November,and Richard Gasquet,who will retire after his final match at the event.
Evening Schedule Change Addresses Empty Seats
Following criticism of empty seats last year, the second men’s semifinal will not begin before 7 p.m., a shift from 5 p.m. previously. Tournament director Amélie Mauresmo expressed the importance of filling the lower stands.
Fan Zone and Increased Prize Money Announced
A free fan zone accommodating 5,000 people will be open from June 5-9 at Place de la Concorde. Organizers hope the tournament winners will present their trophies there. the prize money has increased to €56.52 million, up 5.21% from 2024.
What makes Roland-Garros different from other Grand Slam tournaments?
Roland-Garros: Q&A on a Tournament of Tradition
Q&A Section
Q: Why is Roland-Garros sticking with human line judges while other Grand Slams are going electronic?
A: Roland-Garros, or the French Open, is emphasizing its commitment to tradition adn its role in training officials. They value the human element and the expertise of their line judges, especially as the French Tennis Federation is a global leader in providing officials.
Q: What is the current status of electronic line calling in other major tennis tournaments?
A: The Australian open and US Open adopted electronic line calling in 2021, and Wimbledon will implement it this year. The ATP eliminated line judges from the main men’s circuit on January 1.
Q: Could Roland-Garros eventually adopt electronic line calling?
A: Yes, if there’s a strong demand from the players, tournament organizers might reconsider. Though, there isn’t currently widespread support for it, especially on clay courts.
Q: What are some of the event changes and highlights for this year’s French Open?
A: There will be tributes to retiring stars Rafael Nadal and Richard Gasquet. Additionally, the second men’s semifinal will be played at a later time (7 p.m.) to maximize attendance,and a free fan zone will be open at Place de la Concorde. Prize money has also increased to €56.52 million.
Q: Why is the timing of the men’s semifinal being changed?
A: This change comes after criticism regarding empty seats in the lower stands during last year’s matches. the later start time aims to attract more fans and fill the venue.
Q: How much prize money increase is there?
A: there is a 5.21% increase in prize money, totaling €56.52 million for the tournament.
Q: what is the meaning of playing on clay courts?
A: Clay courts, like those at Roland-Garros, favor a different style of play, frequently enough leading to longer rallies. This unique surface is an integral part of the tournament’s identity and part of the reason for the decision to stick with human line judges.
Trivia: Rafael Nadal is often called the “King of Clay” because of his unbelievable dominance on the surface.
Actionable Advice: Plan to visit the fan zone at Place de la Concorde from June 5-9 for a chance to celebrate the winners and enjoy the tournament atmosphere.
Whether you’re a fan of tradition or technology,the 2025 French Open promises an exciting tournament with its unique approach to officiating and the continued festivity of tennis legends.
