French Open 2026: Will Aryna Sabalenka and Naomi Osaka 'open door' for women's night sessions?

Naomi Osaka and Aryna Sabalenka ended a run of 33 men's French Open night-session matches in a row For the first time since 2023, the French Open chose a women's match for their primetime night-session spot on Court Philippe Chatrier. Roland Garros organisers - after three years of reluctance and excuses - simply had to choose Belarusian top seed Aryna Sabalenka's fourth-round victory over Japan's Naomi Osaka. Under the lights on Monday, Sabalenka and Osaka produced a high-quality contest which underlined the WTA Tour's strength and star power. Sabalenka eventually took control to win 7-5 6-3 in one hour and 27 minutes, perhaps leaving some spectators wanting more. "I hope this is the beginning and we open the door to [more] women's night sessions," said 28-year-old Sabalenka. Osaka, also 28, added: "I'm honoured the tournament chose us to play in this slot and I hope going forward they continue to do so." Few of the near-15,000 fans inside Chatrier - which was very close to capacity - seemed upset they had not received value for money. As well as the high level of play, many lapped up the entertainment provided by two players who undoubtedly bring the X-factor. Osaka walking out i