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After securing her spot in the Roland Garros semifinals, Aryna Sabalenka (27, world No. 1) addressed the ongoing debate surrounding the scheduling of women's matches earlier in the day.
On Tuesday, June 3rd, Sabalenka defeated Qinwen Zheng (22, world No. 7) 7-6(3), 6-3, setting up a semifinal clash with rival Iga Swiatek (24, world No. 5).
What Sabalenka said
In the post-match press conference, via GSP, Sabalenka was questioned about the Roland Garros organisers' tendency to schedule women's matches in the daytime and men's matches in the evening sessions.
“I totally agree, I have to say yes, we all deserve the same treatment. We've had many great battles between us, so it would be great to see a women's match in the evening session with more people in the stands watching these incredible clashes.
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"Just to make us more visible to a wider audience. I totally agree: we deserve a bigger stage, a better schedule, and more people watching us,” said the world number one, as quoted by Eurosport.
The organizers' decision resulted in a sparse crowd at Philippe-Chatrier Court for both Sabalenka's and Swiatek's matches.
“Honestly, I wasn't really paying attention to the crowd, but it seemed like there were enough spectators. I agree, it was an important match, it probably would have made more sense to schedule it later so that more people could come and see it.
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"On the other hand, I'm glad I finished early and have half a day off to enjoy the city and do what I like. But yes, I think it would have been logical to schedule it later,” added the Belarusian.
Sabalenka is not the first player to speak out on this issue. After her exit from Roland Garros, Ons Jabeur strongly criticized the French Tennis Federation and Prime Video.
"It's a bit ironic. They don't showcase women's sports, they don't showcase women's tennis, and then they say, 'Yeah, but the fans mostly watch men.' Obviously, they watch men's sports more because we show it more. Everything is connected. It's a shame on the Federation, it's a shame on Prime Video for signing such a contract.
"Many great players deserve to be there. One of the matches on Monday was between Naomi Osaka and Paula Badosa. An incredible duel. It should have been in the evening session. Just like last year when Iga Swiatek and Naomi Osaka should have been there. I don't know which fans they are referring to. I know I'm a fan and I would watch that match." - Ons Jabeur
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