French Open 2025 Faces Gender Bias Accusations Over Match Scheduling

The French Open 2025 has come under scrutiny for alleged gender bias in its scheduling, with top female players, including Aryna Sabalenka, Ons Jabeur, and Coco Gauff, criticizing the tournament organizers for limiting women’s matches in prime-time night sessions.

Players Speak Out Against Scheduling Disparities

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has expressed frustration over being scheduled on Court Suzanne Lenglen instead of the prestigious Court Philippe-Chatrier, where major matches, including the final, take place. Sabalenka stated, “I think I should be playing on Philippe Chatrier. Hopefully, from now on, I will.”

Meanwhile, Ons Jabeur and Coco Gauff have called for greater representation of women’s matches in night sessions, arguing that female players deserve equal visibility. Gauff emphasized, “Women’s matches are worthy of a night spot. If there are two slots, one should be for women.”

French Open’s Night Session Controversy

Since the introduction of night sessions in 2021, only four women’s matches have been scheduled in prime-time slots over the past four years. The last instance was in 2023, when Sabalenka faced Sloane Stephens in the last-16 round.

Jabeur criticized the lack of female representation, stating, “Whoever is making these decisions doesn’t have daughters. Otherwise, they wouldn’t treat women’s tennis like this.”

Tournament Director’s Response

French Open director Amelie Mauresmo has defended the scheduling decisions, insisting that the format remains unchanged and that the selection of matches is based on audience demand. However, critics argue that the lack of women’s matches in prime-time slots reinforces gender disparities in tennis.

Future Implications for Women’s Tennis

The controversy has reignited discussions about equal representation in Grand Slam tournaments, with players and fans urging organizers to prioritize fairness in scheduling. As the French Open 2025 progresses, all eyes will be on whether the tournament addresses these concerns or continues with its current scheduling approach.

For more updates on tennis and gender equality in sports, stay tuned! 🚀

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