In its usual calendar slot of early summer the Philippe Chatrier Court is festooned with red geraniums. Different blooms have appeared this year as The French Open will run into the much cooler month of October. Roger Parker’s Daily Diary from Roland Garros.
The last of the slams to have a roof on the main show court Philippe Chatrier was called into use immediately on day 1, and began to pay off the alleged cost of US$358 million.
Ballperson/Ramasseur at the ready wearing a compulsory face mask.
A work in progress. Court Suzanne Lenglen is undergoing a major makeover due to complete in 2021, as seen from the roof of Court Philippe Chatrier.
The much debated heavier ball at the ready.
Simona Halep pink outfit a fluorescent sneakers glow in the stygian gloom of Centre Court.
Victoria Azarenka didn’t like the cold either…
And even Britain’s Dan Evans shivered sidelines during his loss to Kei Nishikori.
Evans soon departed, after another disappointing first round loss.
Britain’s Andy Murray didn’t fair much better either, losing to Stan Wawrinka in straight sets.
And Johanna Konta was another first round loser, going out to Coco Gauff.
