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French Open Venue History

Fittingly, the Roland Garros stadium was built as the direct result of a French tennis success. In 1927 ,the four muskateers Jacques Brugnon, Jean Borotra, Henri Cochet and Rene Lacoste beat the Americans on their home soil and brought home the Davis Cup. However, there were no venues in France that could hold the crowds of spectators that were expected to turn-up for the Challenge Round the following year.

Centre Court The French Stadium and the Government combined efforts to release three hectares of land near the Porte d’Auteuil. The only condition was stated by the club; that the stadium take its name from one of its old members, Roland Garros. Garros was a pioneering aviator and war hero, who was sadly killed in combat only five weeks before the Armistice.

Throughout the venue's history, it has stood as one of the world's premier tennis arenas. However, for a brief period during the Second World War, the purpose of the complex was sadly and darkly twisted. For part of the period when France was occupied, Roland Garros was used as a temporary prison for Jews before they were taken East to their deaths. These incidents, although harrowing and rarely associated with the French Open, should never be forgotten or ignored.

Ever since its construction, Roland Garros has experienced enlargements, modifications, and changes that have enabled the stadium to fulfil the requirements of modern tennis. It is recognised by many as the home of clay court tennis.

For the final tournament of the last century the Centre Court was re-worked, with half of its features updated. Fittingly, the ladies' event was won by France's Mary Pierce, a well deserved end to the millenium for a nation that has contributed so much to the game of tennis.

Official Roland Garros site