Why Roland Garros is French Open?

The French Open and Roland Garros are like twins. They go hand in hand.

Roland Garros, the venue for the only clay-court Grand Slam is etched in history having hosted the competition since 1928.

There’s a unique story behind Roland Garros which is often overlooked and here, we’ll unravel the unique story behind Roland Garros.

Why Roland Garros is French Open?

Why is it called Roland Garros? Roland Garros was opened in 1928 and it was built to preserve France’s tennis success as the country had won the Davis Cup the year prior.

The name Roland Garros was proposed by president president of the Stade Francais at the time Emile Lesueur who requested the venue be named after his heroic former classmate Roland Garros, who had died during World War I in 1918.

Lesueur’s request was ultimately granted and the venue has been known as Roland-Garros ever since.

Who was Roland Garros?

Surprisingly, Roland Garros had very little to do with tennis throughout his lifetime.

Roland Garros was one of the view who was very obsessed with planes and during WW1, he found a revolutionary way to equip a machine gun to them.

Roland Garros enjoyed early success as a fighter pilot before being taken prisoner in 1915.

Roland Garros would take three years to escape and despite being in poor health, opted to return to fighting nearly straight away.

Roland Garros’ decision was not too surprising as he had the quote, ‘Victory belongs to the most persevering’, inscribed on his planes’ propellers.

Roland Garros passed away in battle on October 5, 1918 and is remembered for his innovation and determination.

Along with his French Open tribute, an airport on the French island of Réunion is also named after him.