The French Open, also known as Roland Garros, stands as the second Grand Slam tournament of the year, captivating tennis enthusiasts worldwide. In 2025, players will once again converge in Paris to battle it out on the iconic clay courts. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to the French Open 2025, providing essential information about the dates, schedule, prize money, and how to follow the tournament on the BBC.
The absence of Rafael Nadal, a 14-time champion who retired in 2024, marks a significant change. However, stars like Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Swiatek, and Jannik Sinner are set to compete for another major title. From the first serve to the final match point, we’ll cover everything you need to know to stay updated throughout the tournament.
Here’s a sneak peek of what’s inside: important dates for your calendar, how to catch every moment on the BBC, a glimpse at the prize money at stake, and who to watch out for as potential champions.
When is the French Open 2025?
Mark your calendars! The French Open 2025 will commence on Sunday, May 25, and conclude on Sunday, June 8. The women’s singles final will be held on Saturday, June 7, followed by the men’s singles final on Sunday, June 8. Prior to the main event, qualifying rounds began on Monday, May 19, offering players the chance to secure a spot in the main draw.
During these two weeks, Roland Garros becomes the epicenter of the tennis world, hosting thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. Be sure not to miss a single day of action as the world’s best players compete for glory on the clay.
How to Follow the French Open on the BBC
The BBC will provide extensive coverage of the French Open 2025, ensuring fans can stay connected to the tournament. Enjoy daily live text commentaries of key matches on the BBC Sport website and app. Additionally, 5 Live Sport will offer daily coverage and commentary live from Court Philippe-Chatrier across 5 Live Sport, BBC Sounds, and the BBC Sport website.
A team of expert analysts and commentators will guide you through every twist and turn. Tennis correspondent Russell Fuller, along with Katie Smith, Abigail Johnson, and David Law, will provide in-depth analysis. Commentary of the day sessions begins at 13:00 BST, with night sessions starting at 19:30 BST.
With comprehensive coverage across multiple platforms, the BBC ensures you won’t miss any of the excitement from Roland Garros.
Who Won the French Open in 2024?
In 2024, Carlos Alcaraz clinched his first French Open title, staging a remarkable comeback against Alexander Zverev in the men’s singles final. Alcaraz, a four-time major champion, later defended his Wimbledon title.
Iga Swiatek continued her dominance in the women’s singles, securing her third consecutive title by defeating Jasmine Paolini. Swiatek has now won four of the past five Roland Garros women’s singles titles, solidifying her status as a clay-court expert.
These victories set the stage for an exciting 2025 tournament, as both Alcaraz and Swiatek aim to defend their crowns against a field of talented contenders.
What is the Prize Money?
The French Open 2025 boasts a total prize money pool of 56.352 million euros (£47.5m), marking a 5.21% increase from the previous year. The men’s and women’s singles champions will each receive 2.55 million euros, while the runners-up will be awarded 1.275 million euros.
This significant prize money reflects the prestige and importance of the tournament, attracting top players from around the globe. The financial incentives add another layer of competition, as players vie for both glory and substantial earnings.
Who are the In-Form Players?
On the men’s side, Jannik Sinner, the world number one, and Carlos Alcaraz, ranked second, are the top favorites. Their recent clash in the Italian Open final highlights their strong form. Novak Djokovic, a three-time champion in Paris, seeks a record 25th Grand Slam singles title, though his form has been inconsistent this year. Other contenders include last year’s runner-up, Zverev, and two-time finalist, Casper Ruud.
In the women’s draw, Iga Swiatek remains the frontrunner, despite a mixed clay-court season. Aryna Sabalenka, the top seed, and Coco Gauff have both performed well on clay. Keep an eye on Rome champion Paolini and teenager Mirra Andreeva, who are expected to make a significant impact.
These players have demonstrated exceptional form leading up to the French Open, making them exciting prospects to watch as the tournament unfolds.
Which Britons Have Qualified for the Main Draw?
Jack Draper leads the British contingent in the singles draw, showcasing impressive clay-court form. Draper reached the final of the Madrid Open and was a quarter-finalist in Rome. He is joined by Jacob Fearnley and Cameron Norrie in the men’s singles main draw.
Katie Boulter is the highest-ranked British woman, having secured a WTA 125 title in Paris before the major. Emma Raducanu and Sonay Kartal will also compete in the women’s singles draw.
These British players will aim to make their mark at Roland Garros, adding national interest to the tournament.
What Time Do the Matches Take Place?
Matches at Roland Garros begin at 11 am local time (10:00 BST). The night sessions start not before 20:15 (19:15 BST).
Plan your viewing schedule accordingly to ensure you don’t miss any of the key matches and exciting moments throughout the tournament.
French Open 2025 Schedule
- May 25-27: Men’s and women’s singles first round
- May 27: Men’s doubles begins
- May 28-29: Men’s and women’s singles second round
- May 28: Women’s and mixed doubles begins
- May 30-31: Men’s and women’s singles third round
- June 1-2: Men’s and women’s singles fourth round
- June 3-4: Men’s and women’s singles quarter-finals
- June 3: Wheelchair tournament begins
- June 5: Women’s singles semi-finals
- June 6: Men’s singles semi-finals
- June 7: Women’s singles final
- June 8: Men’s singles final
This detailed schedule ensures you can follow the tournament from start to finish, knowing exactly when each round will take place.
Conclusion
The French Open 2025 promises to be a thrilling tournament filled with intense competition and unforgettable moments. From the absence of Rafael Nadal to the rise of new stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, the event is set to captivate tennis fans around the world.
Remember to mark your calendars for May 25 to June 8 and follow the comprehensive coverage on the BBC to stay updated on all the action. Whether you’re interested in the prize money, the in-form players, or the schedule of matches, this guide has provided you with everything you need to know.
As the players prepare to battle it out on the clay courts of Roland Garros, be sure to tune in and witness the drama unfold. The French Open 2025 is more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of tennis excellence and a testament to the enduring spirit of competition.
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