The French Open has banned alcohol drinking in the stands to stop spectators’ bad behaviour.
The French Open is the only one of the four Grand Slam tournaments to introduce such a ban.
The decision comes after incidents such as the Belgian player David Goffin’s claim that a spectator spat chewing gum at him during his match against French player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.
“It’s becoming like a football match,” said Goffin.
After an emergency meeting, tournament director Amelie Mauresmo announced the ban, stating: “Alcohol was allowed until now in the stands. That’s over now.”
She said that umpires would be stricter in getting respect for players and the game and that rude fans would be removed.
“We’re going to upgrade the security,” Mauresmo said.
“If you don’t behave well or if you throw things at the players, that’s it. Out you go. It’s very clear, the instructions are given, and we will not hesitate.”
Goffin, who described the atmosphere at Roland Garros as “ridiculous,” said that many players and umpires have complained about the disrespectful behaviour of some fans.
World number one and defending champion Iga Swiatek also addressed crowd behaviour following her victory over Naomi Osaka, asking fans to avoid shouting during rallies.
“Sometimes when the player is under a lot of pressure when you scream something during the rally or right before the return, it’s hard to be focused,” she said.
Compiled by staff writer
Pictured above: Iga Swiatek.
Image source: X
