Send us a Text Message.

The French tennis open, Wednesday 29 May, 2024

Victory goes to the most tenacious. Swiatek v Osaka

A heroic sentiment. 
Found written in English, in the very Gallic location the Rolland Garros stadium, Paris, France. 
But that is not the  most surprising aspect of this story.

Historically,Roland Garros was a French aviation hero becoming one of the earliest fighter pilots who was shot down in the last days of WW1. The French Open tennis tournament takes the name of Roland Garros, held in the stadium named after him. 

Now, in the stadium, it is true that the words attributed to the heroic aviator are shown in English emblazoned on the side of the stadium. 

Victory goes to the most tenacious. 

It is frequently mentioned by English language commentators. But a little further digging reveals it originally came another even more famous historical figure, Napoleon Buonaparte.  
Also on the frontage at the Roland Garros is the original quote 

‘La victoire appartient aux plus tenaces’ if you’ll pardon my French. 

• Stay up-to-date with all of Tudor's podcasts, blogs and current affairs commentary by signing up to our newsletter!
• Email [email protected] to sign up!

• Follow Tudor on Twitter @Tudortweet
• Follow Tudor's blogs:
• everydaycreativity.uk
• leaderswedeserve.wordpress.com