In an “unprecedented” decision, Roland-Garros officials have announced that the French Open will be played at a completely different time on the 2020 calendar.
The second Grand Slam of the tennis season will be the fourth this year, as Paris will now host the event from September 20 to October 4. The event was originally set to take place from May 18 to June 7.
At this moment, Wimbledon is still scheduled to take place June 29 to July 12 in England, while the US Open is set for August 24 to September 13 in New York.
“Though nobody is able to predict what the situation will be on 18th May, the current confinement measures have made it impossible for us to continue with our preparations and, as a result, we are unable to hold the tournament on the dates originally planned,” the tournament announced on its website.
“In order to act responsibly and protect the health of its employees, service providers and suppliers during the organization period, the FFT has chosen the only option that will allow them to maintain the 2020 edition of the tournament while joining the fight against COVID-19.”
First held in 1891, the French Open has been held every year since 1940, when no competition was held due to World War II.
“We have made a difficult yet brave decision in this UNPRECEDENTED situation, which has evolved greatly since last weekend,” said Bernard Giudicelli, President of the French Tennis Federation. “We are acting responsibly, and must work together in the fight to ensure everybody’s health and safety.”