Right now, Paris is buzzing with the rhythm of exchanges on clay. Roland-Garros, the only Grand Slam tournament on this demanding surface, is much more than just a competition. It's a place steeped in history, legends, and fascinating anecdotes that continue to unfold before our eyes. Get ready to dive into the epic story of this mythical tournament, from its humble origins to its status as a global event.

The Tournament's Roots: From French Championships to Myth

Long before it became the giant we know, Roland-Garros began in a much more intimate form. The history starts in 1891 with the "French Tennis Championships," then reserved for members of French clubs. Matches were played on different surfaces, including grass or sand covered with brick dust (the ancestor of clay). It was a local event, far from the current international fervor. The tournament only gradually opened its doors to foreign players, officially in 1925, marking the beginning of its international ascent.

Subsequently, in 1927, the French tennis team, composed of René Lacoste, Henri Cochet, Jean Borotra, and Jacques Brugnon (the famous "Four Musketeers"), won the Davis Cup in the United States. To defend their title the following year (1928) on French soil, a suitable stadium was needed. This is how the French Tennis Federation acquired land near Porte d'Auteuil. It was the official birth of the "Roland-Garros" stadium.

The Rise and the Open Era: Towards Global Legend

With its new stadium and growing aura, Roland-Garros established itself on the international stage. As early as 1968, the Open Era allowed professional players to participate, increasing the tournament's level and media appeal. It thus became an unmissable event for global tennis stars. Over the decades, the complex has undergone numerous modernizations, with iconic courts like Philippe Chatrier (now equipped with a retractable roof), Suzanne Lenglen, and the magnificent Simonne Mathieu, offering an enhanced experience for players and spectators.

Clay Court Anecdotes

Roland-Garros is unique, and its history is dotted with surprising facts and memorable moments. Here's a small selection of 5 anecdotes you might not have known!

• Why Clay? The emblematic surface of Roland-Garros is not pure earth, but a layer of crushed red brick laid on a base of limestone and clinker. This unique surface slows the ball and gives it a higher bounce, favoring long rallies, topspin, and spectacular slides (the spectacle above all!).

• Tribute to the Aviator: Roland Garros, the man, was a heroic aviator from World War I, famous for being the first to cross the Mediterranean by plane in 1913. He never played tennis, but his name is forever linked to this tournament thanks to an agreement made during the land purchase.

• "Sung" Match Balls: One of the unique traditions of Roland-Garros is the often electric atmosphere, especially when the crowd sings the famous song "La Balle de Match" by Jean-Jacques Goldman (unofficially but it happens very often).

• Players' Entry Music: Did you know that the music accompanying players' entry onto the central court is an original composition titled "The Sound of Roland Garros"? It was specially created for the tournament and contributes to its sonic identity.

• The Only European Grand Slam: Roland-Garros is the only one of the four Grand Slam tournaments to take place on the European continent, reinforcing its French identity and heritage.

Conclusion:

From its humble beginnings to its status as a legendary Grand Slam, the history of Roland-Garros is a saga rich in twists and turns. A symbol of clay courts and French elegance, this tournament continues to write its legend each year, offering unforgettable tennis moments and celebrating a unique heritage in the world of sport.

Photo credit: Corinne Dubreuil / FFT