The Open GDF SUEZ, the first indoor stop on the calendar, has become France's biggest women's tennis attraction other than Roland Garros. Held at Coubertin Stadium, an arena in the French capital that offers a unique sense of intimacy to spectators, the event's ringside seats make fans feel like part of the action.

Several stars have had memorable triumphs at this tournament, which debuted in 1993. Most notably, France's own Amélie Mauresmo captured the last of her event record three titles and last of her 25 career titles here in 2009. Then in 2010 she came aboard as Co-Tournament Director.

Serena Williams netted the first title of her career here in 1999, and Elena Dementieva's 16th and final title came here in 2010. Other Paris champions include WTA greats Kim Clijsters, Steffi Graf, Martina Hingis, Petra Kvitova, Martina Navratilova, Mary Pierce, Dinara Safina and Venus Williams.