French Open will not expand its use of backstage cameras despite growing pressure from broadcasters to increase behind-the-scenes access, tournament director Amélie Mauresmo has confirmed.
The Grand Slam will maintain designated camera-free zones, prioritising player privacy as concerns rise across professional tennis about constant off-court filming.
“We really want to maintain respect for the players’ privacy,†Mauresmo said, adding that no additional backstage cameras will be introduced this year.
Privacy vs access debate intensifies
The issue gained momentum after incidents at the Australian Open, where players were caught on camera in private areas.
Coco Gauff criticised the presence of cameras after being filmed breaking her racket off-court, saying she believed she was out of public view. Several players supported her stance, including Iga ÅšwiÄ…tek, who compared the environment to being “in a zoo.â€
Limited changes across Grand Slams
While the French Open is tightening restrictions on backstage access, it is also selectively expanding technology use.
The tournament will allow wearable performance devices such as Whoop—previously restricted at the Australian Open—reflecting a more controlled approach to data and privacy.
Players including Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka had been asked to remove similar devices earlier this season.
New experiments elsewhere
Other tournaments are experimenting with alternative solutions. A WTA 250 event in Austin introduced a “Rage Room,†a camera-free space where players can release frustration without being filmed—an idea driven by players themselves.
The broader tension in tennis media
Across the sport, broadcasters continue pushing for more behind-the-scenes content, while players are pushing back against constant visibility.
The French Open’s stance signals a clear boundary: access has limits, even in an era of increasing sports media saturation.
For now, Roland Garros is choosing restraint over exposure.