### French Open's Night Session Controversy: A Spotlight on Gender Inequality The ongoing debate surrounding the scheduling of night matches at the French Open has reignited discussions about gender equality in sports. Since the introduction of night sessions in 2021, only four women's matches have been featured, with all six night matches in 2025 being men's singles fixtures. This pattern has led to criticism from players and commentators alike, who argue that it sends a message of inferiority regarding women's tennis. Tournament director Amélie Mauresmo has faced scrutiny for this policy, which many perceive as a prioritization of men's matches over women's, raising questions about the tournament's commitment to gender equity in sports. ### Breakdown of the Night Session Scheduling Controversy 1. **Historical Context**: - The French Open introduced night sessions in 2021, but since then, only four women's matches have been scheduled during this prime-time slot [https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/french-open-scheduling-night-sessions-women-b2760770.html]. - In contrast, other Grand Slam tournaments like the Australian Open and US Open feature both men's and women's matches during their night sessions [https://www.yardbarker.com/tennis/articles/french_open_director_amelie_mauresmo_brushes_off_women_not_worthy_of_night_session_criticism/s1_17325_42266236]. 2. **Current Situation**: - As of 2025, all six night matches have involved men's singles, continuing a trend where women's matches are largely absent from the night session [https://www.latestly.com/sports/tennis/roland-garros-2025-amelie-mauresmo-defends-french-open-night-session-policy-amid-criticism-6894883.html]. - Mauresmo has been questioned multiple times about this lack of representation, yet she has consistently dismissed the criticism, stating that the scheduling is based on various factors, including audience interest [https://www.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/13376926/french-open-tournament-director-amelie-mauresmo-defends-lack-of-womens-matches-in-night-sessions]. 3. **Player Reactions**: - Prominent players like Ons Jabeur have voiced their concerns, suggesting that the decision-makers may not fully appreciate the implications of their choices, stating, "I don't think they have daughters" [https://www.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/13376211/ons-jabeur-criticises-french-open-for-not-putting-womens-matches-in-night-sessions]. - The lack of women's matches in prime time has been interpreted by many as a message that women's tennis is less worthy of visibility and support [https://www.modernghana.com/sports/1404683/roland-garros-five-things-we-learned-on-day-6.html]. ### Evidence of Gender Disparity in Night Sessions - **Match Distribution**: - Since the introduction of night sessions: - 2021: 2 out of 36 night matches involved women. - 2022: 1 women's match. - 2023: 1 women's match. - 2024: 0 women's matches. - 2025: 0 women's matches so far [https://www.nbcsports.com/tennis/news/at-french-open-2-of-36-night-matches-have-involved-women-with-amelie-mauresmo-in-charge]. - **Comparison with Other Grand Slams**: - Other Grand Slam tournaments typically feature one men's and one women's match during their night sessions, highlighting a stark contrast with the French Open's approach [https://www.whec.com/national-world/french-open-2-of-36-night-matches-have-involved-women-with-amelie-mauresmo-in-charge]. ### Conclusion: The Need for Change in Night Session Policies The ongoing situation at the French Open underscores a significant issue regarding gender representation in sports. **The lack of women's matches in night sessions not only reflects a disparity in scheduling but also raises questions about the tournament's commitment to gender equality**. 1. **Historical Context**: The introduction of night sessions has not benefited women's tennis as intended. 2. **Current Situation**: The continued absence of women's matches in prime time is a cause for concern. 3. **Player Reactions**: Criticism from players highlights the broader implications of these scheduling decisions. 4. **Evidence of Disparity**: Data shows a consistent trend of underrepresentation for women's matches in night sessions. **To foster a more equitable environment, the French Open must reconsider its scheduling policies to ensure that women's tennis receives the visibility and recognition it deserves**.