Choreographer Benjamin Millepied is tasked with creating two short dances for the finals at Roland Garros. His challenge is to blend the worlds of dance and tennis. The dance precedes the women’s final on Saturday and the men’s final on Sunday.

“Remember you can’t touch it!” Millepied tells his dancers. They rehearse moves over an imaginary net on an imagined tennis court. He plays Rosalía’s song “Reliqua” to drive the practice session.

Only eight days remain before the French Open tournament finale. Millepied’s unconventional task reflects the desire for innovative performances. Amélie Mauresmo, who oversees the event, wants striking dances that stand out.

Millepied observes similarities between dance and tennis, likening both to arts involving constant change in direction. His goal is to interpret this through choreography, offering audiences a visual treat before the matches commence.