'Domino effect': Tennis in disarray after 'crazy' French Open bombshell
The tennis world could be sent into disarray after reports the French Open will be delayed, which could see a domino effect impact the ATP and WTA schedule.
Roland Garros is set to be postponed by a week, starting on May 30 instead of May 23, sports daily L’Equipe reported on Wednesday.
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But the impact of delaying it a week is wide-reaching with players already signing up for grass court tournaments between and at the end of Wimbledon.
French President Emmanuel Macron returned the country into lockdown due to another wave of Covid-19 hitting the nation.
While large sporting events have been largely spared, the French Sport minister admitted there were discussions to change the date of the competition.
The 2020 tournament was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, eventually taking place in late September and early October.
The event usually begins on the fourth Sunday in May, ending in early June.
But the latest report rocked the tennis world with the community realising the impact a delay could have on the schedule for a second year in a row.
Furthermore, leading tennis reporter Ben Rothenberg pointed out the late notice was just as 'crazy' on the tennis players.
And could there be a domino effect on the front end as well? Would a tournament like Rome move a week as well just to keep its usual distance from the French Open?
It's crazy how late in the game these things are happening. Clay season is already underway.— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) April 7, 2021
I understand that as of tonight, even if the French Open is delayed by a week as the ever-reliable @QuentinMoynet is reporting it will be, Wimbledon will not move.
Two-week gap between two slams clearly not ideal but it seems FFT see it as the only way.— James Gray (@jamesgraysport) April 7, 2021
L'Equipe reports that 2021 French Open will be delayed a week to May 30 to June 13 in hope that buying time will allow for spectators/concessions on site. Brings us back in time: a 2-week gap with Wimbledon. Stuttgart & other impacted grass events could be compensated https://t.co/UwlwVnU5GP
— Christopher Clarey (@christophclarey) April 7, 2021
Looks very much like the French Open are doing what suits them again without regard for other tournaments. 😡 https://t.co/4nub8CQjAo
— TennisBuzz (@TennisBuzzBlog) April 7, 2021
Alize Cornet hits out after reports
French tennis star Alize Cornet became aware of the news when she was told during a post-match interview at Charleston Open, which is an American clay tournament.
"It stays between us, but our sport minister is a disaster," a shocked looking Cornet told the Tennis Channel.
Alize Cornet not happy to be told of the reported postponement of Roland Garros on Tennis Channel.
(I also love that she says “it stays between us” during a live television interview.) pic.twitter.com/IKkS96VQJo— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) April 7, 2021
"Sorry I have nothing against her, but she takes bad decisions for the sport. It's like she doesn't care.
"I know it comes from the government, it might also come from the tournament because I heard they might have more people if they postpone for one week.
"But still I think it is a pretty selfish decision, to be honest, because the calendar is going to suffer from this postponement."
Cornet did say she understood why this decision could be made during the Covid-19 pandemic, but was disappointed.
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with Reuters
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