The French Tennis Federation (FFT) has announced the ticket sales for the Rolland Garros 2020, which has been rescheduled from September 21 to October 11 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a major switch from the US Open, which will be played behind the closed doors, the second tournament on the annual Grand Slams list – Rolland Garros 2020, which was better known as the French Open – will have up to 60% of its stands filled. But there are several riders as the tickets go on sale from July 9 for the FFT-licensed clubs. Tickets will be made available to general public a week later.
The FFT, adapting to the situation caused by the Covid-19 crisis, has prepared a protocol to protect spectators attending this historic edition of Roland-Garros. The tournament organisers have made the reservation system for the three show courts – Philippe-Chatrier, Suzanne-Lenglen and Simonne-Mathieu – more flexible. Tickets will be sold by day, court and seat category and the buyers will be informed about the exact position of their seat in mid-September.
If the situation improves, the FFT has kept the option open to roll out more tickets. But any adversity might as well lead to cancellation of the sold tickets and make refunds for the supplementary tickets.
Empty seat at Roland Garros
The FFT, strictly adhering to the social distancing policies, will limit the number of spectators inside the stadium in ratio to the overall stadium capacity, a principle that has been implemented as of today across cinemas and theatres in France. The tiered seating at the three show courts will follow a precise protocol. One seat in each row will be left empty between every group of purchasers with up to a maximum of four people allowed to sit on adjacent seats.
On the outside courts, spectators will be allowed on alternate seats. Only between 50% and 60% of the total seats will be filled this way.
Strict adherence of hygiene measures
Spectators’ movement around and inside the stadium will be restricted to ensure that the barrier measures and social distancing are respected. It will be mandatory to wear masks while sitting, standing or moving inside the stadium; whereas the visitors will be encouraged to cover their face and nose in the vicinity of the stadium.
The cleaning and disinfecting of the various areas will be stepped up and hydro-alcoholic solution distributors will be installed.
The FFT will also apply a specific hygiene protocol for the players and their entourage.
The fans this year will have the opportunity to watch the qualifying rounds (men’s and women’s), the men’s and women’s singles and doubles, the junior singles and doubles (boys’ and girls’), and the wheelchair tennis and quad events.