French Open Preview

It has been an interesting couple of weeks in tennis. We have seen the resurgence of Rafael Nadal and have seen up and comers like Robin Soderling and Fernando Verdasco make their case to take the French this year, but lets not get too carried away. Anyone who thinks just because Roger Federer is winning the French Open based on their being no pressure on him is sorely mistaken. Yes, he broke Sampras's record and yes he looked in top form dismantling Andy Murray at the Aussie Open final but this is tournament will be on clay.
A clay surface that has been ruled for the last six years by Rafael Nadal(with the exception of last year because of knee tendinitis). Last Year we saw the King of clay get kicked off his thrown by an aggressive Robin Soderling. Only to see Soderling look hesitant and unsure against Federer in the final. Yes Roger Federer is possibly the best tennis player of all-time, but not on every surface. This is a surface that Nadal was born to play.
If last week's final in Monte Carlo was any indication on what we might see in Rafa over the next couple of weeks, let the WTA on notice. Rafael Nadal is back and with a vengeance. Expect Nadal only to drop a set against Federer in the semi-final before dispatching Novak Djokovic in the final and cementing his status as the best clay court player in the world. Now what to expect from others?
Expect Andy Murray to make a run before being dealt a crushing blow in the quarters by Novak Djokovic or Fernando Verdasco. Expect Djokovic making it to the final as long as is his stamina and fitness holds out. And expect Roger Federer to make a push before being stopped by Juan Martin Del Potro or Nadal. Both younger, more agile clay court players. We might see one or two stunners during the draw but the fact remains if Nadal can stay healthy. He's your best bet.


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Brian Rodriguez