The French Open commenced on Sunday amid sweltering temperatures exceeding 30°C, as fans gathered at Roland Garros under bright sunshine. The atmosphere around the clay courts resembled a summer festival more than a typical Grand Slam event, with spectators donning panama hats and mellow rock tunes, including violin renditions of Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida,” filling the air.
Matches began promptly at 0900 GMT (1100 local time) as officials took measures to cope with the intense heat on the tournament’s opening day. On Court Suzanne Lenglen, 13th seed Karen Khachanov of Russia faced off against France’s Arthur Gea. Meanwhile, on Court Philippe-Chatrier, Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic was set to start her campaign against Austria’s Sinja Kraus.
The tournament has already seen significant withdrawals, notably two-time champion Carlos Alcaraz, who pulled out last month due to a wrist injury, and promising French player Arthur Fils, who withdrew injured on Saturday. In the men’s draw, world number one Jannik Sinner is the clear favorite, while the women’s field remains more open.
In a significant development, Serbia’s Novak Djokovic, aiming for a record 25th Grand Slam title, was scheduled to begin his run later on Sunday against France’s powerful server Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. On the women’s side, Russia’s eighth seed Mirra Andreeva is among the top-ranked players competing, taking on French wildcard Fiona Ferro.
