Sign in

Protester ties herself to the net to interrupt French Open semi-final

The woman, a French citizen, wearing a t-shirt that read 'we have 1028 days left' tied herself to the edge of the net with a string around her neck.

Published on: Jun 4, 2022, 07:02:46 IST
Reuters
Share
Share via
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • linkedin
  • whatsapp
Copy link
  • copy link

An environmental activist interrupted the French Open men's semi-final between Marin Cilic of Croatia and Norwegian Casper Ruud for 15 minutes on Friday when she jumped onto Court Philippe Chatrier and tied and glued herself to the net.

French Open - Roland Garros: Protestor ties herself to the net during the semi final between Norway's Casper Ruud and Croatia's Marin Cilic (REUTERS)
French Open - Roland Garros: Protestor ties herself to the net during the semi final between Norway's Casper Ruud and Croatia's Marin Cilic (REUTERS)

The woman, a French citizen, wearing a t-shirt that read 'we have 1028 days left' tied herself to the edge of the net with a string around her neck.

The message, written on both sides of her white t-shirt, was a reference to a UN report on climate change.

"An environmental activist managed to get onto Philippe Chatrier Court and attached herself to the net with metal wires and glue," the French tennis federation said.

"The young woman, of French nationality, entered the grounds with a valid ticket early in the day. She was then handed over to the police."

Security guards did not rush to her but instead spread out around the court and then slowly walked to her before removing her from the net.

The players were quickly ushered off the court and play was interrupted for about 15 minutes with Ruud leading 3-6 6-4 4-1.

This is not the first time play has been interrupted at the French Open.

During the 2009 men's final, a spectator jumped on to the court from the stands and tried to put a hat on Roger Federer's head. In the 2013 showpiece between Rafael Nadal and David Ferrer, a masked protester ran around the court waving a flare.

Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Olympics 2024, where Indian athletes will compete for glory in Paris. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.