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Home Tennis WTA Chief Pushes for Equal Night Sessions After French Open Controversy

WTA Chief Pushes for Equal Night Sessions After French Open Controversy

The head of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has described the scheduling of women’s matches at top-level tennis events as a “systemic” issue, following criticism of the French Open’s decision to feature no women’s matches in its prime-time night sessions on Court Philippe Chatrier this year.

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WTA CEO Portia Archer stated that she expects to meet with Roland Garros tournament director Amélie Mauresmo to discuss how they can address the issue. However, Archer emphasized that she does not believe the problem lies with any single individual.

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“I just think it’s a missed opportunity,” Archer told BBC Sport. “I think the fans expect, and increasingly will demand, to see the best tennis matches—whether men’s or women’s—during prime-time slots.”

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Archer also pointed to the role of TV rights holders, suggesting they may influence scheduling decisions on behalf of fans.

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Since the French Open introduced night sessions in 2021, only four of those matches have been from the women’s draw. This year, former WTA world number one Mauresmo defended the decision, rejecting accusations that the absence of women’s matches from night sessions implied that female players were not “worthy” of the spotlight.

Mauresmo’s remarks came after Ons Jabeur, a three-time major finalist, expressed disappointment over the imbalance, stating that it was “unfortunate for women’s sports in general.” Jabeur took to social media to highlight that “honoring one side of the sport shouldn’t mean ignoring the other.”

“I thought Ons shared a very eloquent message,” said Archer. “We’ll have conversations with the Grand Slams and other events that are operating in a way that differs from what fans and the public demand.”

Archer also encouraged fans to voice their support for more equitable scheduling. “It is something we will continue to push for and advocate for—it’s in our DNA at the WTA.”

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Mauresmo explained that the decision not to feature women’s matches in night sessions was based on concerns that their best-of-three set format could lead to matches finishing too quickly. She also mentioned that the French Open prefers not to schedule two night sessions, as seen at the Australian and US Opens, to avoid late finishes.

While acknowledging Mauresmo’s position, Archer stressed that this issue is “broader than that” and is “systemic” across tournaments, not just at the Grand Slams. “I don’t think it’s an issue specific to the French Open,” she said.

On whether she plans to discuss the matter directly with Mauresmo, Archer confirmed that she would “have an opportunity to do that,” adding that the goal is to work with all relevant parties to bring about change.

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