Celebrating the French Open with Fun Facts and Trivia

As play gets underway at Roland Garros Stadium, the French Open 2010 will run from May 23rd until June 6th. The French Open is one of the world's four major tennis tournaments. This year's two top men's seeds are Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal with Serena and Venus holding the number one and two positions for the women. Qualifying rounds of the tournament have begun but first round play begins on Sunday, May 23rd. The French Open never fails to provide thrilling tennis. To celebrating this year's tennis tournament at Roland Garros, here are some fun facts and trivia about the event.

Fun Facts and Trivia about the French Open

Roland Garros Stadium is named after Roland Garros, an aviation pioneer who was the first man to fly over the Mediterranean.

The French Open is one of four major tennis tournaments. The other three are the Australian Open, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open.

Roland Garros Stadium was built in 1928. Prior to the stadium completion, the French Open was played at Stade Français club in Paris. The first tournament was held in 1891.

The women's French Open was not added to the tournament until six years after the men's tournament began.

During 1940 to 1945, the French Open was canceled due to World War II.

Björn Borg has won the men's French Open title a record six times.

Rafael Nadal has won the tournament four times consecutively from 2005 to 2008.

The men's and women's French Open title winners will receive 1,120,000 EUR (euro dollars).

Even if you make it to the final of the French Open and lose, you would still bring home an impressive 560,000 EUR.

In 2009, Roger Federer finally won the French Open on his eleventh attempt, completing a career grand slam.

To get up-to-the-minute news (including stats, schedule of play, tournament photos, videos, and the latest scores) on the 2010 French Open, please visit their website here.

Sources:
www.rolandgarros.com
www.tennis.com