Each year the bring orange, clay tennis courts of the French Open are used from late May to early June. This year, stars were born, strong players dominated, and a legend sat out entirely.

thefrenchopen-terry newmyer

Roger Federer

The legacy of Roger Federer’s career is truly one of the most impressive in tennis history, which is why it came as a shock when he announced he would be skipping the French Open in order to prepare for Wimbledon. Unlike the French Open, Wimbledon uses a grass-court, which requires a completely different set of tennis skills in order to thrive on. In the end, Federer’s decision to stay off of the clay courts was upsetting for his fans, but strategically a good call.

 

Rafael Nadal

Men’s Single Winner

In the past, Nadal has already proven that he can dominate on the clay surfaced courts. According to Nadal, he had always dreamed of winning just once at the French Open, but this year marked his 10th win. Back in 2005, Nadal dominated at the French Open, and it’s a true testament to his skill in the sport that he has managed to win ten of the 12 French Open competitions he has played.

 

Jolena Ostapenko

Women’s Single Winner

In the Women’s Final, Ostapenko delivered an outstanding game against third-seeded Simona Halep. After losing the first set to Halep, Ostapenko came back strong in the second and third sets, ultimately giving her the win. This is 20-year-old Ostapenko’s first ever championship win, having entered the French Open as an unseeded player.

 

Ryan Harrison and Michael Venus

Men’s Doubles Winners

Ryan Harrison of the United States and Michael Venus of New Zealand beat Santiago Gonzalez and Donald Young at the Roland Garros. Michael Venus became the first winner of the French Open from New Zealand since 1974.

 

Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Lucie Safarova

Women’s Doubles Winners

Bethanie Mattrek-Sands and Lucie Safarova successfully beat out Kristina Miadenovic and Svetlana Kuznetsova for the Women’s Double title at the open. Originally, Miadenovic was to play with Caroline Garcia, but Garcia dropped out of the open at the last minute.