The French Open has unveiled plans to allow fans to attend their event this year with strict safety measures in place amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a press conference on Thursday the French Tennis Federation (FFT) confirmed that this year’s tournament will go ahead with a maximum of 60% of its full capacity. A stark contrast to the US Open, which is taking place behind closed doors for the first time in history. On the main courts at Roland Garros a maximum of four people will be allowed to sit together with an empty seat separating them from others. Meanwhile, on the other courts every other seat will be out of use.
“We went for the responsible option,” FTT president Bernard Giudicelli told reporters.
“Should the situation evolve in the right direction, new tickets would be available in September,” he added.
The FFT has said their 60% benchmark is based on ‘health-related information and the projected guidelines’ alongside discussions with the national government. They said their approach is a principle that is also being taken by cinemas and theatres in the country. However, it is possible that these rules could be tightened if there would be another outbreak of the Virus in the country.
“If the situation requires more stringent hygiene standards that force us to reduce the number of spectators on site, the tournament organisers will refund any supplementary tickets sold,” the FFT explained.
Organizers estimate that over the two weeks 20,000 people are expected to attend the event daily and 10,000 on the final day. Those attending will be required to wear a face mask whilst walking around the grounds, however, it will only be optional whilst they are sitting courtside.
It has also been confirmed that all the usual events will go ahead as planned, including junior, qualifying and wheelchair competitions. All three of those events were removed from the US Open, but the wheelchair event has since been reinstated following a backlash from players.
A specific hygiene protocol for the players and their entourage will also be in place for the event. Although officials are still in the process of finalising the plans and will be publishing them at a later date.
This year’s French Open will start on September 27th and end on October 11th. Rafael Nadal and Ash Barty are the reigning champions.
