The French Open has implemented a ban on alcohol in the stands after recent crowd disturbances, marking a significant change in the tournament’s policies. This decision comes in the wake of several incidents, including allegations by Belgian tennis star David Goffin that “someone spat out their chewing gum at me” during his marathon five-set match against French wildcard Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard on Court 14.
Goffin, 33, expressed his frustration, warning that tennis is beginning to resemble football with “smoke bombs, hooligans, and fights.” His concerns have prompted tournament officials to take swift action.
Tournament chief Amelie Mauresmo, a former Wimbledon champion, confirmed the new alcohol policy: “Alcohol was until now allowed (authorised) in the stands, outside the players’ stand and the presidential stand. Now it’s finished everywhere.” She emphasized that disruptive behavior will not be tolerated, adding, “If they exceed the limit, if they don’t behave well or if they throw things at the players, that’s it, they go out.”
While this measure may be seen by some as an overreaction, especially since alcohol is permitted at the other three Grand Slam tournaments, the decision aims to curb unruly behavior and ensure a respectful environment for both players and spectators.
In addition to the alcohol ban, Mauresmo highlighted efforts to address noisy and disruptive spectators. Umpires will enforce stricter rules to maintain order, and those who overstep will be ejected from the grounds. This stance was reinforced by two-time defending champion Iga Swiatek, who had to address the crowd directly during her match against Naomi Osaka, asking them to be quiet during rallies to help her focus.
“We are happy that people are very enthusiastic about watching tennis, about being part of the matches, about feeling emotions and showing emotions,” Mauresmo said. “But yes, definitely there are steps that they shouldn’t go further.”
She assured that measures will be taken to maintain a balance between allowing fans to express their enthusiasm and ensuring they do not disrupt the players. “The umpires are really going to be even more strict in respect to the players and respect the game,” she stated. “So these individuals…we will try to calm them down or they go out. If they go too far, they go out.”
Mauresmo also mentioned plans to upgrade security and monitor the situation closely. “We’re going to see how it goes,” she said. “I think if people entering the stadium, they’re happy, they want to share emotions, that’s great. I’m really trying to see that people are going to react in a good way and that it’s going to be okay, and if it’s not, then we will take the other measures.”
The new measures are aimed at ensuring that the French Open remains a safe and enjoyable event for everyone involved.