Roland-Garros

Roland-Garros — the French Open — is the clay-court major, played in late spring in the heart of Paris. Red clay, long tactical rallies and a stylish Parisian crowd make it the most distinctive of the four Slams: a tennis trip and a Paris trip in one.

The only Grand Slam played on clay, staged at the Stade Roland-Garros in western Paris. It's the most physically demanding major, rewarding endurance and craft over raw power. Recent renovations added a roof and lights to Court Philippe-Chatrier, so play now continues into the evening and through rain.

The stadium sits in the elegant 16th arrondissement beside the Bois de Boulogne. Paris is compact and superbly connected, so you can base yourself almost anywhere in the city, reach the tennis easily, and enjoy the capital between sessions.

French Open tickets are sold mainly through the official FFT site, via a staged, time-based on-sale (often a virtual waiting room) rather than a pure lottery. Set up an FFT account early and be ready the moment tickets drop. Tickets are sold by day and by court, and official resale covers sold-out sessions.

Late May into early June in Paris is usually pleasant but can turn warm or wet — Chatrier's roof keeps play going. The clay makes for long, absorbing matches. It's the perfect excuse to pair top tennis with a full Paris trip.