French Open Night Matches: Pegula’s Critique on Women’s Scheduling Equality 🎾

Dates: 25 May-8 June
Venue: Roland Garros

The French Open night matches have once again sparked controversy, with Jessica Pegula voicing her dissatisfaction over the limited representation of women’s tennis in these prime-time slots. Despite the French Open’s commitment to equality, the first eight days of the tournament have not featured any women’s singles matches in the night sessions. This absence has fueled criticism that female players are being overlooked. However, tournament director Amelie Mauresmo has refuted these claims.

Scheduling Criticism from Pegula and Jabeur

Most importantly, two-time Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur has weighed in on the issue. She noted on social media that honoring one side of the sport should not mean neglecting the other. Because of this ongoing scheduling disparity, Pegula, the American third seed, remarked, “Every year it’s the same. It’s never equal. We are an event that is supposed to be equal. Why not give us some more chances to be?”

This marks the 22nd consecutive evening in Paris without a women’s singles match, a trend persisting since 2023. During a news conference, Mauresmo emphasized that no female players have directly complained to her. Therefore, she stated that the intention was never to imply that female players are unworthy of prime-time slots.

Men’s Matches Dominate Prime-Time Slots

Upcoming night matches will showcase prominent male players. On Saturday, Serbia’s Novak Djokovic faces Austria’s Filip Misolic. Then, on Sunday, Denmark’s Holger Rune competes against Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti. These scheduling choices highlight the ongoing Roland Garros equality issues that Pegula and others have criticized.

Jabeur’s Call for Recognition

Jabeur further emphasized the achievements of women’s tennis, asserting, “The women’s game has been writing its own legacy loudly, brilliantly, and for far too long without too much recognition. The game is not asking to be seen. It is already shining.” Her statement underscores the importance of recognizing Ons Jabeur’s women’s legacy in the sport.

Pegula, set to play against Frenchwoman Lois Boisson in the fourth round on Monday, echoed Jabeur’s sentiments. “I’m happy that she’s able to speak up. She’s always been really good at wanting everything to be equal and fighting for not just where she’s from, but also for women in general,” Pegula said. “I’m with her, and I think we have proven that we deserve the same amount of opportunity.”

By addressing these scheduling concerns, Pegula and Jabeur are leading a call for change, urging the French Open to ensure that women’s tennis receives the recognition and prime-time exposure it deserves. 🎾