The scorching heat wave gripping Paris since the start of the French Open is not only testing players but also threatening the clay courts. With temperatures soaring to at least 32°C (90°F) on all four days so far—far above normal for late May—the risk of cracking has forced groundskeepers to take extraordinary measures.
Head of court maintenance Philippe Vaillant described the conditions as unprecedented, noting that even weather services are surprised by the prolonged heat. To preserve the courts, his team of 200 groundskeepers has increased watering and spread calcium chloride—a salt that retains moisture. In the evening, courts are soaked to recharge the layers, and during matches, light watering between sets is now routine.
Veliant explained that a Roland Garros clay court comprises five layers, with a crushed limestone base as the crucial playing foundation. This layer must stay moist to prevent cracks. The heavy rains in May have helped, allowing the groundskeepers to store water in the layers. Without that, the situation would be dire.
The heat has made the courts faster, as noted by top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka after her first-round win. Veliant cautioned that dry courts become slippery like an ice rink, posing injury risks. Players have been using ice bags to cool down, while the groundskeepers continue their careful balance of moisture to keep play safe and fair.
