Roland Garros begins today

The French Open

The French Open, officially known as Roland Garros begins today.The French National Tournament which began in 1891was dedicated only for men. Women were admitted in 1897. The French Open or Tournoi de Roland-Garros is played at  Roland Garros Stadium. It's located in the 16th arrondisemment of Paris, close to Bois de Boulogne. The Roland Garros Stadium consists of 20 courts including two show courts Court Philippe Chatrier, Court Suzanne Lenglen & a museum for tennis. The central court Philippe Chatrier was built in 1928 & seats 15166.  The Court Suzanne Lenglen was built in 1994 & seats 10068. Both Philippe Chatrier & Suzanne Lenglen were French tennis players where as Roland Garros was a  French air pioneer.

Roland Garros tournament is the second Grand Slam & the first clay court tennis in the world. This event is played every year in mid- May & early June. Compared to other courts, the Clay court slows down the ball and produce a high bounce. So this is the physically hardest tournament in the world and a dream of every tennis player to win it. The trophies are made out of pure silver, but the winners are given a small replica along with a big cheque.
The Parisians goto French Open to see & to be seen. Most of the spectateurs are clad in Lacoste from top to bottom:), dark sunglasses & wide brimmed hats to protect from the blistering sun. For the finals the VIP seats are occupied by former players, officials, ministers, actors & top models. So don't miss it :)