Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Roland Garros Sets May 24 Start, Raises Purse, Trials In‑Match Wearables

The overhaul positions Paris as a test bed for richer prizes married to wearable tech.

Overview

  • Organizers confirmed the 125th edition will open on May 24 with total prize money of €61.723 million and €2.8 million for each singles champion.
  • Payouts for the qualifying draw rise by 12 percent, with €24,000 for a first‑round qualifying exit to boost earnings for lower‑ranked players.
  • For the first time at a Grand Slam, a controlled program will allow approved biometric wearables such as Whoop during matches to capture data like heart rate and breathing.
  • The event expands into a three‑week program, with qualifying‑week activities from May 18–22 that include player interviews, open practices, and a public fan zone at Place de la Concorde with 3,800 seats.
  • A May 21 tribute on Court Philippe‑Chatrier will celebrate Gaël Monfils’ 20th and final appearance, with separate homages planned for Caroline Garcia and 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka.