Retractable roof to be installed over Roland Garros center court

PARIS (AP) -- The red clay of Roland Garros rarely turns to mud during Grand Slam season, but the French Tennis Federation has chosen an architect for a new retractable roof that will be ready for any rain delays as of 2011.

So Roland Garros will join Wimbledon as another major tennis venue with the ability to keep the courts dry during any downpours.

The new roof at Roland Garros will cover the central court and those planned at an extension of the competitive courts not far away from the main stadium.

Architect Marc Mimram already is well known as the designer of the overpass that connects France and Germany across the Rhine River in Strasbourg that was used by NATO leaders in their recent summit.

The federation unanimously chose Mimram in a vote Wednesday.

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