Ons Jabeur hits out at lack of women’s matches in French Open primetime slots

TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:

"Ons Jabeur Critiques French Open for Prioritizing Men's Matches in Prime-Time Slots"

Ons Jabeur hits out at lack of women’s matches in French Open primetime slots analysis cover image The Guardian 8.1
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Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/may/28/ons-jabeur-hits-out-at-lack-of-womens-matches-in-french-open-primetime-slots
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AI Analysis Average Score: 8.1
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TruthLens AI Summary

Ons Jabeur, a prominent figure in women's tennis and former Wimbledon runner-up, has voiced her disappointment over the French Open's scheduling practices, particularly regarding the lack of women’s matches in prime-time slots. Since the introduction of night-session matches at Roland Garros in 2021, the schedule has predominantly featured men's singles matches. In fact, last year, all eleven matches broadcasted during prime time showcased male players, and this trend has continued into the current tournament, with the upcoming match featuring Danish player Holger Rune against American Emilio Nava. This consistent exclusion of women from prime-time visibility raises significant concerns about gender equity in sports, especially given the popularity and talent present in women's tennis. Jabeur expressed her frustration, suggesting that decision-makers may not fully understand the implications of their scheduling choices, saying, "I don’t think they have daughters, because I don’t think they want to treat their daughters like this."

Jabeur's remarks come in response to comments made by Gilles Moretton, president of the French Tennis Federation, who claimed that the match schedule is determined by what is deemed to be more appealing to spectators. She argued that the lack of televised women’s matches contributes to a cycle where men's tennis is perceived as more popular, simply because it receives more airtime. Jabeur pointed out the irony in the situation, stating that iconic matches featuring top female players, such as Naomi Osaka and Paula Badosa, should have been included in prime-time slots. She emphasized that many talented female athletes deserve the opportunity to compete in front of larger audiences. Despite her early exit from the tournament after losing to Poland's Magdalena Frech in the first round, Jabeur remains a strong advocate for equal representation in sports and continues to call for changes that would allow women's tennis to gain the recognition it deserves.

TruthLens AI Analysis

The article addresses a significant concern raised by Ons Jabeur regarding the scheduling of women's matches at the French Open, highlighting issues of gender inequality in sports broadcasting. The criticism directed at the French Tennis Federation suggests a broader discussion about representation and visibility of women's sports, especially in high-profile events like Grand Slam tournaments.

Critique of Gender Inequality

Jabeur's comments reflect a deep frustration over the consistent preference for men's matches in prime-time slots, which can perpetuate a cycle where audiences are conditioned to favor men's sports over women's. By emphasizing that decision-makers may not understand the implications of their scheduling choices, Jabeur asserts that there is a disconnect between the governing bodies of sports and the evolving expectations of modern audiences.

Impact of Media Contracts

The mention of the contract between the French Tennis Federation and Amazon Prime highlights the commercial pressures that can influence the visibility of women's sports. Jabeur's assertion that outstanding matches featuring women have not been showcased suggests that the decisions made are not just about viewer preferences but also about financial agreements that may prioritize male athletes.

Community Response and Support

The article is likely to resonate with various communities advocating for gender equality in sports, particularly among female athletes and supporters of women's rights. By bringing attention to the lack of representation, it may galvanize fans and stakeholders to demand changes in how sports events are scheduled and broadcasted.

Potential Economic and Social Implications

The ongoing debate about women's visibility in sports could influence sponsorship deals and investment in women's sports leagues and events. If the public response is strong enough, it may lead to shifts in how sports organizations approach gender equity, potentially affecting the financial landscape of both women's and men's sports.

Comparative Context

When compared to other recent discussions in sports about gender equity, such as the pay disparities in various sports, this article fits into a broader narrative advocating for equal treatment of female athletes. It aligns with movements pushing for systemic changes within sports organizations to ensure that women receive equal opportunities and recognition.

Manipulative Elements

The article does not seem overtly manipulative but utilizes Jabeur's strong words to emphasize a point that resonates with many. The emotional appeal in her rhetoric aims to provoke thought and draw attention to an issue that is often overlooked, but it does not target any specific individuals or groups in a derogatory manner.

Trustworthiness Assessment

The article appears to be a credible representation of Jabeur's views and the context surrounding the scheduling of matches at the French Open. It presents factual information regarding the scheduling practices and quotes from Jabeur that reflect her genuine concerns. Thus, it can be considered reliable, as it highlights a significant issue backed by a well-known athlete's perspective.

Unanalyzed Article Content

Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/may/28/ons-jabeur-hits-out-at-lack-of-womens-matches-in-french-open-primetime-slots

Ons Jabeur has criticised Roland Garros for snubbing women’s tennis, saying: “I don’t think they have daughters.”

TheFrench Openintroduced night-session matches in 2021 but they have almost always been men’s singles matches. Last year all 11 prime-time TV slot matches featured men and the three so far this year have followed suit, while Wednesday night’s is the Danish 12th seed Holger Rune against the American world No 137 Emilio Nava.

Gilles Moretton, the president of the FrenchTennisFederation, caused controversy this week when he said the schedule is dictated by what will be “better for spectators”.

The Tunisian former Wimbledon runner-up Jabeur said: “It’s still sad that we are still seeing this. In Europe it’s unfortunate for women’s sports in general. Whoever is making the decision, I don’t think they have daughters, because I don’t think they want to treat their daughters like this.

“It’s a bit ironic. They don’t show women’s sport, they don’t show women’s tennis, and then they ask the question, ‘yeah, but mostly they watch men.’ Of course they watch men more because you show men more. Everything goes together. It’s a shame from the Federation, a shame from [Amazon] Prime, that they made such a contract like this. A lot of great players, they deserve to be there.

“One of the matches was Naomi [Osaka] and Paula [Badosa]. Such an unbelievable match. They were supposed to be there. Like last year, Iga [Swiatek] and Naomi was supposed to be there. A lot of great matches, they should have been there. I’m not sure what kind of fans he’s talking about. I know I’m a fan. I will watch that match.”

Jabeur suffered a first-round exit at Roland Garros on Tuesday when she was beaten in straight sets by Poland’s Magdalena Frech.

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Source: The Guardian