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During the Roland Garros tennis tournament, spectators are prohibited from consuming alcohol in the stands to prevent inappropriate behavior. This information was officially confirmed by the tournament director, Amelie Mauresmo.
The decision was made after a spectator spat chewing gum at Belgian tennis player David Goffin during his match against Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. On Wednesday, defending champion Iga Swiatek asked the audience to remain quiet during rallies and refrain from shouting.
“First of all, we are happy that people are very excited while watching tennis and that they are part of the matches, showing emotions. However, there are limits that should not be crossed; certain things need to be set straight. Alcohol was previously allowed in the stands, but that has come to an end,” Mauresmo stated.
Although alcohol is banned in the stands, it is still available around the courts. Mauresmo said that judges will be stricter and will demand that the audience “respect the players and the game.”
Security measures have also been increased, and those who break the rules will be identified and warned. If warnings do not work, Mauresmo announced further measures.
Goffin welcomed Mauresmo’s intervention, saying it would prevent escalation in the coming years.
