The Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault has just announced its eight finalists, confirming its status as one of the premier eSports tournaments worldwide. With an impressive turnout of 515,000 players from 221 countries engaging in 9.5 million Tennis Clash matches, the competition to reach the Final Stage was fierce. Now, the stage is set for an unforgettable event on May 24th at the Roland-Garros Tenniseum.
Reigning champion Alessandro Bianco will defend his title against a talented lineup including Hizir Balkanci, winner of the first Open Qualifier, alongside Anyndia Lestari, Omer Feder, Adjua Thembisa Boucher, Eugen Mosdir, Bartu Yildirim, and Samuel Sanin Ortiz. This diverse group of finalists will bring their A-game to what promises to be a thrilling showdown.

Adding to the excitement, this year's tournament format introduces a fresh twist. The eight finalists will be divided into two teams, each led by a tennis legend. Gilles Simon, former ATP world Number 6 and a finalist from last year, will captain one team, while former Wimbledon Champion Marion Bartoli will lead the other. These teams will compete in a series of matches, with winners advancing to the Winner Bracket. Those eliminated will have a second chance in the Loser Bracket, where teams break apart, and the ultimate goal remains to be crowned the Roland-Garros eSeries champion.

Ensuring viewers stay engaged throughout the event, the charismatic Samuel Etienne, a renowned French personality and Twitch streamer with over 1 million followers, will host the proceedings. He'll be joined by esports expert Quento and former Tennis Clash number 1, Benny (aka GP365). The tournament will immerse fans in the Roland-Garros spirit, featuring a replica of the iconic Philippe-Chatrier court and custom outfits. Esteemed French umpire Aurélie Tourte will officiate what is expected to be a series of exhilarating matches.
An audience of 250 spectators will witness the action live at the auditorium, while fans worldwide can tune in via Samuel Etienne’s Twitch channel and the Roland-Garros YouTube channel, starting at 4pm CEST. Viewers can look forward to watching every match live, as well as enjoying interactive segments and passionate discussions with special guests, celebrating the intersection of tennis and eTennis.