In the world of professional tennis, match schedules can vary greatly, impacting players' routines and performance. Some athletes thrive in morning matches, while others prefer the evening spotlight. The French Open, held at Roland-Garros in Paris, showcases this diversity as players adapt to their assigned times. Young star Coco Gauff, for instance, embraces early starts, unlike many who dread them.
Grand Slam tournaments like the French Open are known for their all-day format, offering matches from morning till late night. This scheduling is driven by commercial factors such as ticket sales and broadcasting rights, which bring significant revenue to organizers. As a result, players may find themselves competing at unconventional hours, sometimes stretching past midnight. Despite the challenges, some athletes have grown accustomed to these demanding schedules. Madison Keys, an experienced player, expressed her preference for avoiding late-night matches after years of playing under the stars.
Beyond personal preferences, the scheduling dynamics highlight broader issues within the sport. Questions arise about gender equality in prime-time slots and the unpredictability of start times due to tennis's untimed nature. While some players, like Lorenzo Musetti, remain flexible and open to any schedule, others struggle with the lack of certainty. This variety in player experiences underscores the need for greater understanding and adaptation in professional tennis, promoting a balanced approach that respects both athletic performance and audience engagement. Embracing flexibility and accommodating individual needs could enhance the overall experience for everyone involved in the sport.