CONFIRMED: French Open 2020 to Go Ahead With Fans Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt life across the globe, the world of sports has finally come alive again. Tennis resumed a couple of weeks back with the Cincinnati Masters and continues with the ongoing US Open. French Open 2020 will follow the US Open, with the main-draw kick-starting on September 27.

Today, the organizers released a statement regarding all the guidelines that will be followed during the event.

Guidelines for French Open 2020 released

Unlike US Open, French Open 2020 will allow a certain number of spectators in the arena. It will also hold the qualifying rounds, something the US open did away with. Moreover, in accordance with the government’s guidelines, Roland Garros will allow spectators to fill up about 50% of the stadium capacity.

The arena spans just under 30 acres and will be split into three sites during the event. Each of the three sites will feature one show court and multiple outside courts. However, only show court tickets will be put up for sale. The organizers will limit the number of spectators to 5,000 for Philippe-Chatrier and Suzanne-Lenglen and 1,500 for Simonne-Mathieu.

Jean-François Vilotte, Director-General of the French Tennis Federation, is determined to put on a responsible and remarkable event in Paris, France.

“The aim of this health and safety protocol is to act responsibly by protecting everyone who, for whatever reason, is present inside the stadium during the 2020 edition of the tournament, while organising this outstanding international tennis event.”

Rafael Nadal set to equal Roger Federer

With two weeks left before the clay major begins, most players have already confirmed their participation in the event. Most notably, it will mark the return of Rafael Nadal. The Spaniard was happy to give the US Open a miss to stay in Europe and practice on clay.

Rafa will look to capture a record-extending 13th title in France. This will also see him finally equal Roger Federer’s tally of 20 Majors.

Moreover, Novak Djokovic may very well travel back to Europe and start his clay-court process sooner than expected following his shocking exit from Flushing Meadows. The Serbian remains on 17 Majors having missed the chance to jump to 18 in the USA.

The qualifying rounds for the Roland Garros will begin on September 21, while the main draw will begin on September 27.