French Open 2026: Why are women being continually overlooked for Roland Garros night sessions?

This discussion is nothing new, but nothing has changed either.

In each of the past three years, questions have been raised about whether the French Open should have done more to showcase the women’s game.

“I don’t think they have daughters because I don’t think they want to treat their daughters that way,” Jabeur said.

The lack of action has prompted recently appointed WTA chief executive Valerie Camillo to seek answers from French Open tournament director Amelie Mauresmo (former women’s world number one) when they meet at Roland Garros this week.

In what the WTA described as an open and productive meeting, Camillo underlined her belief that women’s players have provided some of the “most exciting and dynamic competitions in global sport” in recent months and years.

It remains to be seen whether Camillo’s call to action will be heeded.

Mauresmo has consistently argued that the danger of women’s matches going “really fast” was the rationale behind the choices.

Tournament organizers believe the prospect of a short two-set women’s match, with tickets ranging from €60 to €280 (£50 to £240), does not represent value for money.

Mauresmo insisted that the night sessions would not be extended to two matches like the Australian Open and US Open for fear of a late finish.

Will the French Open shake up? Last year, despite pressure from the players and the women’s governing body, he refused to waver and – According to reports, external – publishers.

Former world number one Osaka will face current top women’s player Aryna Sabalenka in the last 16 on Monday.

The Japanese player said he did not know whether this blockbuster match would be considered for the night session, but he felt that this area was reserved for “popcorn matches”.

If Osaka and Sabalenka can’t meet the criteria for the French Open, it feels like nothing will.

“I hope it changes,” Ostapenko added.

“Even if I don’t play, I would like to see women’s matches there. But I don’t know if it will happen.”