French Open is moved to week after US Open in September
The BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, a combined men’s and women’s event considered the sport’s fifth major, was the first significant change to the tennis calendar when its postponement was announced on 8 March because of COVID-19.
Last week, the men’s and women’s professional tennis tours began announcing cancellations of various tournaments in response to the viral outbreak.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday that for at least 15 days, people in that country would only be allowed to leave their homes for necessary activities such as shopping for food or going to work. He also banned gatherings of families and friends.
The French Open originally began in 1891 as the French Championships and has allowed foreign entrants since 1925. The only years in its history when the tournament was not contested were from 1915-19 because of the first World War and from 1940-45 because of World War II.
The end of this year’s tournament was supposed to represent the cut-off for ATP and WTA ranking points which would help determine which players were eligible to compete in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics starting in late July.
The French federation said people who have already purchased tickets for the event can either ask for refunds or exchanges.
The 2020 edition of the tournament will see Rafael Nadal try to add a record 13th title at Roland Garros.
Serena Williams could also make another run at winning her 24th Grand Slam trophy.
The change of dates could also see Swiss legend Roger Federer able to take part after all.
He was going to miss the tournament in May because he recently had knee surgery.