The stadium is named after the French aviation pioneer Roland Garros, who was the first person to fly solo across the Mediterranean Sea.
The clay courts are composed of several layers, including a thick foundation of limestone and coal, topped with white limestone and a final layer of crushed brick.
Court Simonne-Mathieu is uniquely integrated into the historical greenhouses of the Jardin des Serres d'Auteuil.
The venue's surface is technically 'terre battue,' which is slower than grass or hard courts, necessitating a sliding movement technique from players.
The French Open is the only Grand Slam tournament still played on clay surfaces.
The stadium was originally built in 1928 specifically to defend the Davis Cup title won by the 'Four Musketeers' of French tennis.
During the French Open, the venue functions as a massive temporary village with specialized broadcast centers and retail zones.
The stadium grounds are technically located on the site of the former Stade Français rugby fields.
The tournament utilizes a specialized system to maintain the clay surface, which must be watered and brushed repeatedly throughout the day.
Roland Garros Stadium is a premier tennis complex located on the western edge of Paris, famous for its signature red clay courts. It serves as the exclusive venue for the French Open, one of the four annual Grand Slam tournaments. The facility features three major show courts: Court Philippe-Chatrier, Court Suzanne-Lenglen, and the intimate Court Simonne-Mathieu. Court Philippe-Chatrier is equipped with a retractable roof, allowing play to continue during inclement weather. The site encompasses the Tenniseum, a museum dedicated to the history of tennis and the tournament itself. Architecture throughout the grounds blends traditional clay-court aesthetics with modern infrastructure upgrades. The stadium is situated within the Bois de Boulogne, a large public park in the 16th arrondissement.
The elevated viewing platforms overlooking Court Philippe-Chatrier.
Book guided tours of the stadium in advance if visiting outside of tournament dates to gain access to the player locker rooms.
Check the tournament schedule if visiting in late spring, as access to the general grounds is restricted or ticket-only during the French Open.
Carry sunglasses and a hat if visiting during summer months, as the clay courts create significant light reflection.
Attempting to enter the grounds without a ticket or tour booking during the tournament period.
Grounds are restricted during the French Open tournament held annually in late spring; museum and tours operate on a seasonal schedule outside of tournament windows.
Maintain silence during active points on the courts; respect designated seating areas.
