Court Suzanne Lenglen has recently unveiled its new retractable roof, becoming the second stadium at Roland Garros to have this feature. The addition of the roof is seen as a significant upgrade by tournament director Amelie Mauresmo, providing more certainty for matches to take place regardless of the weather conditions. The design of the roof, created by architect Dominique Perrault, features wings that can close in just 15 minutes, inspired by the pleated skirt designed by Jean Patou for Suzanne Lenglen herself.
In recent years, Roland Garros has undergone several renovations and upgrades, including the rebuilding of the 15,000-seat Court Philippe Chatrier and the installation of a retractable roof in 2020. The addition of Court Simonne Mathieu in 2019 provided spectators with a larger venue and a unique design that blends into the surrounding gardens. With a total of 18 courts and 38,401 seats, Roland Garros continues to improve its facilities for both players and fans.
In addition to the new roof at Suzanne Lenglen, the 2024 tournament will feature an entrance show for players and spectators, enhanced by LED panels and a redesigned entrance vestibule. The tournament’s four largest stadiums have also received upgrades, including new players’ benches and chairs inspired by Parisian park benches. The French-made furniture will be expanded to all courts on site by 2025, adding a touch of elegance to the tournament.
The player spaces at Philippe Chatrier have been redesigned to resemble Parisian apartments, offering a restaurant, bar, lounge, and changing rooms with a stylish new look. The players’ restaurants have also been upgraded to offer themed food concepts, such as Asian, Italian, and grill options. New additions at Roland Garros include Le Rendez-Vous, a space near Philippe Chatrier for live musical performances and the provision of musical instruments for players, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere at the tournament.
The Club House, a social meeting place for players and their guests, has been revamped to include a gourmet bistro and table service, providing a high-end dining experience. The introduction of a tattoo studio last season has proven popular among players and will return for the upcoming tournament. With these upgrades and additions, Roland Garros continues to strive for excellence in providing a world-class experience for players and spectators alike.
