Fans are important players in tennis. The atmosphere created by thousands of spectators cheering is often the final push a player needs to win. However, certain behaviors can cross the line, as has been witnessed in the first days of the Roland Garros competition. The pandemic starkly highlighted the importance of fans, as matches played behind closed doors lacked the vibrancy that a live audience brings. However, sometimes fans forget the etiquette rules of tennis, leading to uncomfortable situations.
David Goffin, who beat Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in his debut, expressed his frustration, stating that some people attend the matches more to cause problems than to create an atmosphere. Goffin's match was marred by an incident where a spectator spat a piece of gum at him. These complaints have reached the ears of the organizers, prompting measures to mitigate inappropriate behavior.
Amelie Mauresmo, the director of Roland Garros, announced measures to ensure respectful fan behavior. ‘We are happy to see that there is an atmosphere, emotions, and that the spectators are present. However, we will be uncompromising about respect for the players and the game,' Mauresmo declared. The tournament has banned the sale of alcohol in the club. Previously, alcoholic beverages were allowed in the stands, but from now on, they are prohibited. Additionally, security personnel and referees have been instructed to be stricter with those causing incidents.
Fan behavior at the French Grand Slam has become a topic of concern. Goffin's comments reflect a broader sentiment among players. The 14th court at Roland Garros, where Goffin experienced the excessive passion of the French crowd, amplifies these challenges due to its intimate setting. The former world number seven highlighted that such behavior is not encountered in other Grand Slams.
Other players have also faced the wrath of passionate fans. Ben Shelton experienced hostility from the local crowd in his match against Hugo Gaston, exacerbated by a band playing musical instruments. Chilean Nicolás Jarry and Monegasque Valentin Vacherot also shared their difficulties in coping with the overwhelming atmosphere.
In response to the escalating tensions, tournament officials have vowed to take a tough stance. Mauresmo emphasized that unacceptable behavior would result in expulsion. Issuing more precise instructions to the chair umpires, she assured that controlling the crowd from the umpire's chair is essential, despite the challenges.
Not all players have found the French crowd disruptive. Novak Djokovic and Paula Badosa expressed understanding of the passionate support. Badosa, in particular, stressed that the energy brought by fans is vital for the sport, something that was greatly missed during COVID. However, there is a general consensus that the Roland Garros audience has been especially fervent this year, often skirting the line of tennis etiquette.
In conclusion, while the enthusiastic energy of fans is appreciated, there is a fine line between support and disrespect. With the new measures in place, Roland Garros organizers are committed to ensuring that the excitement remains healthy and within the bounds of respect for the game and its players.
- Measures to control fan behavior include the prohibition of alcohol sales within the stands. This step is aimed at curbing excessive and disruptive behavior fueled by alcohol consumption.
- Security personnel and referees now have more rigorous instructions to maintain order and swiftly address any behavior that violates the established etiquette rules.
- Amelie Mauresmo acknowledges the difficulty in identifying every individual who crosses the line but insists that efforts will be made to control the situation better.
