You never know which past champions you’ll see around the grounds at Roland Garros.
This is a guest blog by Tennis Buzz. Follow them on Twitter @tennisbuzz
I like spending a lot of time on the outside courts (les courts annexes in French), watching practice sessions or doubles matches.
It’s also a good way to see champions from the past, who are now coaches or TV commentators.
Chris Evert
Magnus Norman
Roland Garros 2001 finalist, former world number 2, coaches Stan Wawrinka
Nathalie Tauziat
Wimbledon finalist in 1998
Andrei Chesnokov
Aemifinalist at Roland Garros in 1989, now coach of Elena Vesnina
Ivan Ljubicic
2006 French Open semifinalist, currently coaching Milos Raonic.
Also seen this year: Martina Navratilova, John McEnroe and Conchita Martinez
Seen last year:
Ivan Lendl
Amelie Mauresmo
And Mats Wilander
If you want to watch old champions (like McEnroe, Wilander or even Hingis) play in a friendly and funny atmosphere, attend the Trophe des Legendes (Legends Trophy).
Matches are played on court 1 and court Suzanne Lenglen during the second week of the French Open.
John McEnroe, 2011
And if you’re a bit nostalgic, pay a visit to Roland Garros tennis museum
Chris Evert by Andy Warhol
Thanks for your comments Christine and Ross. I must admit I do love seeing past champions around the grounds, especially when not many other people are recognising them.
Hi there. Pretty sure I saw Monica Seles in the crowd watching the Federer vs Simon???? The commentator made no comment. But she has a distinctive look 🙂 Cheers Ross.
Thanks for this great article! I’ve wanted to attend the French Open and this was more motivation! Great pics and commentary on tennis greats!