Kenin’s Match Experience at the 2020 French Open
Sofia Kenin entered her fourth-round match against Fiona Ferro at the 2020 French Open unsure of what to expect. Competing against a French player at Roland Garros often comes with the challenge of a lively crowd supporting their local favorite, especially on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
A Sparse Crowd
Kenin’s concerns were minimal, aside from a few hundred fans attempting to disrupt her focus, as she played in front of 14,000 empty seats.
“I wish it would have been crazy, but that was unfortunately a ghost town,” Kenin remarked in an interview earlier this year.
The Pandemic’s Impact
The tournament unfolded amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, making it one of the most unusual Grand Slam events ever. Originally scheduled for spring, the tournament took place in early fall after the French Tennis Federation made a sudden decision to move it due to rising infection rates.
Unusual Atmosphere for Players
Iga Świątek, who won her first Grand Slam title that fortnight, expressed that the atmosphere felt distinctly muted. “Silent” was the first word that came to her mind when recalling the experience at Roland Garros. She noted the overall ease and enjoyment she felt while playing, despite the strange circumstances.
Operators and Restrictions
The FFT had to navigate logistical challenges due to the pandemic, such as cancelling plans for a larger audience and limiting daily spectators to just 1,000. The tournament’s scheduling and atmosphere were altered dramatically, with players facing unexpected weather, including winds and cooler temperatures.
Player Experiences During the Tournament
Some players, like Benoît Paire, faced struggles related to the virus, while others prepared mentally and emotionally for the unique circumstances. Despite the challenges, the tournament moved forward, culminating in significant victories, like Rafael Nadal’s 13th French Open title.
A Unique Tennis Experience
Several players emerged with unforgettable memories, even amidst the chaos. For young talents like Sebastian Korda and Jannik Sinner, the event became a valuable experience, competing at the highest level, albeit under unusual settings. Kenin and Świątek later expressed appreciation for the singularity of that tournament, contrasting it with their normal competitive experiences.
