French Open 2020: Up to 60% capacity allowed at Roland Garros

French Open organizers announced up to 60% of the usual capacity will be permitted inside the Roland Garros grounds for the rescheduled 2020 tournament, according to Reuters.

French federation chief Bernard Giudicelli said at a news conference Thursday that a maximum of four spectators could sit together with an empty seat between groups during matches on main courts.

One out of every two seats will need to be vacant on other counts for the Grand Slam's main draw set to kick off on Sept. 27.

"We went for the responsible option," Giudicelli said. He adds that protective masks are required for spectators while they move inside the grounds, but will only be recommended for those sitting courtside.

Giudicelli says approximately 20,000 spectators are expected during the early stages of the two-week event, with an additional 10,000 present on the day of the final.

"Should the situation evolve in the right direction, new tickets would be available in September," Giudicelli said.

Initially scheduled to start on May 24, the French Open was suspended, with the COVID-19 pandemic drastically altering the tennis calendar.

The US Open will be held without any fans present in New York from Aug. 31 to Sept. 13.