French Open could stay at Roland Garros, says federation

The French Open could stay at Roland Garros instead of moving to the Paris suburbs after plans to extend the grand slam venue took a step forward, the French tennis federation president said on Thursday.  

"There has been significant progress for the project 'Roland Garros within Roland Garros' although nothing is final," Jean Gachassin told reporters at the Metz International.  

The FFT was granted a concession to use several courts next to the Roland Garros stadium which may be enough for the grand slam to stay where it is instead of moving to the Paris suburbs.

"Ten days ago, we were granted a concession to the Jean Bouin stadium (which) is huge because it means 17 courts some 100 metres from Roland Garros," Gachassin explained.                                           

Despite the progress made, a move to the Paris suburbs has still not been ruled out with Gachassin adding: "We are still considering Marne La Vallee, Gonesse and Versailles".                                           

A decision will be made during an FFT general meeting in February, 2011 with the new Roland Garros set to be made available by 2015 or 2016.

"Obviously, there is a soul at Roland Garros. We have to take this into account," said Gachassin.