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The French Open is the only Major played on clay. The 2022 edition of the French Open is just around the corner, with the tournament getting underway on Sunday, May 22.
Most of the top players, including Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Iga Swiatek, will be in action over the course of the fortnight in Paris. There have also been a few rule changes and interesting developments to take note of.
On that note, here's a look at five things you need to know before the action unfolds at 2022 Roland Garros in less than a week's time:
#1 French Open to introduce tie-break at 6-6 in deciding set
In 2021, the French Open was the only Grand Slam that did not employ a tie-break at any stage in the deciding set.
The Australian Open used a 10-point tie-break at 6-6 in the deciding set. Wimbledon had a conventional tie-break at 12-12, while the US Open used a tie-break at 6-6.
However, in March, it was announced that all four Slams will have a 10-point tie-break at 6-6 in the deciding set, starting at 2022 Roland Garros. The move is being deployed to bring "greater consistency in the rules of the game."
In a press release, the Grand Slam Board said:
"On behalf of the Australian Open, Roland-Garros, Wimbledon and the US Open, the Grand Slam Board are pleased to announce the joint decision to play a 10-point tie-break at all Grand Slams, to be played when the score reaches six games all in the final set."
"Further to extensive consultation with the WTA, ATP, ITF and tennis officiating community, the Grand Slam Board’s decision is based on a strong desire to create greater consistency in the rules of the game at the Grand Slams, and thus enhance the experience for the players and fans alike."
#2 Night session at Philippe Chatrier to have full crowd
The French Open introduced night sessions for the first time last year. A covered roof and floodlights were installed on Court Philippe Chatrier ahead of the 2020 edition. Night sessions were introduced a year later, albeit with restricted crowds due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a night curfew in place.
In 2022, though, night sessions on Philippe Chatrier will be open to full crowds and with no restrictions in place. Night sessions offered a unique Roland Garros experience to fans and players last year, and the same should continue this year as well.
Interestingly, eventual champion Novak Djokovic beat 13-time winner Rafael Nadal in the semifinals last year in an unforgettable night-session clash. The French government allowed a relaxation of the curfew to allow fans the opportunity to witness one of the best matches in tournament history.
The likes of Serena Williams, Iga Swiatek, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Daniil Medvedev were involved in night-session matches at Roland Garros last year.
#3 Amelie Mauresmo becomes first female director of Roland Garros
Amelie Mauresmo made history late last year when she was announced by Roland Garros as their first-ever female tournament director.
Mauresmo, a two-time Roland Garros quarterfinalist, succeeded Guy Forget.
She said following her appointment:
"I feel honoured that Gilles (Moretton) wanted me for this position. I will put all my energy into this new role, as in everything I have ever done in my life. I want to work hard and excel in this new mission. I want to put forward ideas for many of the fields connected with the tournament. I’m definitely stepping out of my comfort zone!"
The 42-year-old hopes for Roland Garros to be the best Grand Slam for players in terms of facilities and reception areas.
"It would be my wish to see the stadium’s stands sold out for next year’s tournament… The night sessions, especially, will be a real challenge. Though we have less space than the other Grand Slam tournaments, I would also like to improve the player reception areas. I want Roland-Garros to be their favourite major!"
#4 Increased prize money
The French Open will have increased prize money this year. The total prize pool is €43.6 million, up by 6.8% from pre-pandemic (2019) levels.
The two singles winners will be richer by €2.2 million. The two finalists will earn €1.1 million, while first-round losers will receive €60,000, a 35% increase from 2019.
Meanwhile, men's doubles and women's doubles winners will take home €580,000. The finalists will take home €290,000, while losing teams in the first round will receive €15,000.
#5 French Open 2022 will have a few notable absentees
The 2022 French Open will have a few notable absentees. Twenty-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer and 23-time Major winner Serena Williams will be conspicuous by their absence in Paris this year. Both players haven't played since Wimbledon last year due to injuries, and it's not yet known when they'll return to action.
Apart from the aforementioned duo, 2002 finalist Venus Williams and 2016 runner-up Andy Murray won't be in action this year at the French Open. The Brit, who withdrew from his match against Novak Djokovic in Madrid, is slated to return for the grasscourt swing.
Other notable absentees are Elina Svitolina and her husband and local boy Gael Monfils. While Svitolina will not play due to personal reasons, Monfils recently pulled out due to a heel injury.
Also Check Out :- French Open 2022 Results
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