French Open 2026: Aryna Sabalenka v Naomi Osaka to be first women's night match at event since 2023
Last year, American world number five Jessica Pegula said she felt like she was “hitting her head against the wall” over the subject, while two-time Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur questioned whether the people making the decision “have daughters”.
Since 2023, questions have been raised about whether the French Open should do more to showcase the women’s game.
The lack of action prompted recently appointed WTA chief executive Valerie Camillo to seek answers from French Open tournament director Amelie Mauresmo – a former women’s world number one – when they met at Roland Garros this week.
In what the WTA describes as an open and productive conversation, Camillo underlined her belief that women’s players have delivered some of the “most exciting and dynamic competition in global sport” over recent months and years.
Mauresmo has consistently argued that the danger of women’s matches going “really fast” is the justification behind the choices.
Tickets for night session matches during the 2026 tournament range from €60 to €280 (£50 to £240).
Mauresmo has insisted the night sessions will not be extended to two matches – like the Australian Open and US Open – in fear of creating late finishes.
