Thousands of people flood into the sloped stands of the centre court. Sitting in silence, the intense swinging of tennis rackets and the fierce impact of the ball are the only sounds that can be heard, dominating the French air. All visitors sit perched on the edge of their seats, inundated in anticipation to find who the winner on the clay court will be. The Roland-Garros tennis tournament is certainly not one to be missed this Spring.

The French Open, also known as Roland-Garros, is a major tennis tournament held over two weeks at the Stade Roland-Garros in Paris, France. The Roland-Garros is chronologically the second of the four annual Grand Slam tennis tournaments and begins in late May every year. The stadium and event are named after the French aviator, Roland Garros, a man renowned for the creation of the first single-seater fighter plane.  After his death in the First World War, his name became less associated with fighting in the skies and synonymous with the fight to win on the court. The French tournament has become a battleground for tennis’ international elite to showcase their ability on the most testing of surfaces.

The French Open was the only major tournament not played on grass until 1975. As such, the Roland-Garros presents a new test for athletes. With the slower pace and higher bounce on the red-coloured, clay court, the event is regarded as one of the most physically demanding tournaments in the world.  Rafael Nadal, the undisputed king of the clay, is certainly not one to miss at this year’s tournament. Known for his famous topspin, electric net play and lefty-forehand, Nadal possesses the traits necessary to excel on the clay surface. Entering into the open off the back of his record-breaking 21^st Grand Slam win, Nadal will have his eyes set on win number fourteen this year in Paris.

Visitors can watch the magic unfold across several courts, but Court Philippe-Chatrier is certainly the home of the main event. The centrepiece court seats around 15,225 spectators following a 2019 renovation. Like any major tennis tournament, visitors can expect to be seated amongst a sea of timeless, ivory Panama hats as spectators soak in the Parisian sun. Akin to a red carpet, the red clay of the main court parades the world’s finest talent, treating spectators to a truly enthralling game.

New sleek and neutral designs circle the centrepiece court. Court Philippe-Chatrier is a clear highlight for many visitors who await to witness some of the biggest games in tennis. Moreover, the court renovation has been implemented to make the arena more spacious, modern, and comfortable for those who visit. Another well-received addition is the new retractable roof for players to continue during unexpected weather. Spectators will also now have greater visibility of the court, and access to new spaces beneath the stands.

Adrenaline is high and the energy is contagious in the exclusive dining areas, while hearts are racing for those who have a close-up view of the backspin or kick serves by some of the greatest tennis players in the world. There is no lack of dining and hospitality options for those who visit the Roland Garros tournament. However, additional luxury is provided for guests who enquire about exclusive dining experiences with a priority view of the main courts. Just two examples of gourmet dining at the tournament are Le Club Chatrier and Le Club Des Mousquetaires.

Meals are served by luxury caterers, Potel et Chabot, providing fresh products in refined luxury and creative settings. The shared reception areas require a minimum order of four guests, where a gourmet lunch or dinner can be enjoyed. If a determined Novak Djokovic makes an appearance, visitors may gain a prime view of one of the most intense matches of the tennis calendar, with Nadal and Djokovic both vying for this year’s French Open title.

There is also the option of choosing First or Gold category seats on the Court Philippe-Chatrier to enjoy the red-clay magic with a view fit for royalty. The exclusive dining options are sure to create a luxurious experience for all guests who opt for this, providing a unique and unforgettable addition to their time at the much-anticipated tournament.

In between the tournament days, for those who would like to explore the city, there are a plethora of activities on offer in Paris. While travelling to Paris, it is certainly recommended to visit well-renowned museums such as the Musee d’Orsay or the Louvre Museum to view some of the most prestigious art collections in the world. An action-packed schedule in Paris can be guaranteed alongside the gripping tournament. However, for guests who may also like to take Paris at a slower pace, a peaceful and romantic dinner cruise along the River Seine while gazing at the Eiffel Tower in the evening Parisian spring skies would be a memorable choice for many.

The Roland-Garros tournament is certainly not one to miss this year. A return of tennis’ greatest rivalry is expected to take place as we await the anticipated arrival of Novak Djokovic following his exclusion from the Australian Open. An air of anticipation surrounds this year’s tournament as many people around the world look forward to one of the greatest events on the tennis calendar, eagerly awaiting the crowning of the King and Queen of the red clay.