The signature clay court surface, which is made of crushed red brick and crushed white limestone, was first used in 1895.

It was then opened to international competitors, and in 1928, the event moved to its current location at Stade Roland Garros.

The surface is known for being slower and more demanding than other court surfaces, which can favor players who excel at long rallies and defensive play.

The French Open, also known as Roland Garros, is one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments and is the premier clay court tennis championship event in the world. The tournament is held annually at the Stade Roland Garros in Paris, France and usually takes place over two weeks in late May and early June. The French Open was first held in 1891 as the Championnats de France, and was open only to members of French clubs until 1925.

Tennis Books you may have missed*

• Love Game by Elizabeth Wilson

"Love Game" provides readers with insights into the broader context in which tennis has evolved, touching on themes such as gender dynamics, class distinctions, race, and the commercialization of the sport. Wilson's writing style combines historical research, anecdotes, and analysis to present a comprehensive narrative that not only educates but also engages readers with the fascinating stories behind tennis's development.

• The Greatest Tennis Matches of All Time by Steve Flink

Steve Flink's expertise as a tennis historian and his passion for the sport shine through in "The Greatest Tennis Matches of All Time." Through his engaging writing style and comprehensive coverage, Flink brings these matches to life, allowing readers to relive the excitement and understand their significance within the broader context of tennis history.

• The Inner Game of Tennis: The Classic Guide to the Mental Side of Peak Performance by W. Timothy Gallwey

"The Inner Game of Tennis" emphasizes the power of self-awareness, focus, and the ability to quiet the mind in order to unleash one's full potential. It discusses common mental obstacles that hinder performance, such as self-doubt, anxiety, and overthinking, and provides practical techniques to overcome them.



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