For the first time in a long time, Rafael Nadal has only played three matches in the lead up to Roland Garros. Although quite convincing wins in the first two rounds, he stumbled in the quarter finals of the Masters 1000 event in Rome to Diego Schwartzman. The Argentine, too strong claiming the straight sets win 6-2 7-5.
The surprise result leaves some questions heading into Roland Garros. Will Nadal have the match fitness to get through two weeks of tennis. An aging Nadal with extended time on the sidelines this year due to COVID-19, it may take some time for the 12-time champion to get going. Although, he cannot be counted out at his favourite tournament of the season.
Looking at the man who defeated Nadal, Schwartzman could be seen as a big chance at this year’s event. Playing on his favourite surface, a kind draw could see him make a deep run into the second week and come out on top.
His fight and ability to chase down every ball makes Schwartzman a threat. This gives him an advantage against the taller big serving opponents as he is able to rally, forcing the opposition to make a mistake. Coming up against Tsitsipas or Zverev will be highly advantageous for the South American.
The battles will be against those matching his running stamina. Djockovic and De Minaur are two who will test Schwartzman. These long rally points will only end with an unforced error from either player.
After a successful US Open Campaign, Dominic Thiem is a great chance to go two Slams in a row. The Austrian has been runners-up twice in Paris. Although, similar to the usual French Open – Wimbledon gap we could see fatigue and a short campaign from the winner of the previous tournament.
The Italians players were exceptional in their home tournament last week and Matteo Berrettini is one to watch at Roland Garros. Berrenttini is poised to make a dream run deep in Paris, just like his successful run to the semi-finals at the US Open in 2019. Berrettini biggest challenge will be beating a top 10 player later in the draw, something he has struggled to do since tournaments have resumed this year.
He wouldn’t want to come up against Novak Djockovic. The world number one is yet to drop a match this year other than his default at the US open. Djockovic will be looking to keep his fine form on clay going after his success in Rome.
This year, more so than any other, Rafael Nadal will have his work cut out for him if he is to claim his 13th Roland Garros title. Will the king prevail?