Greg Rusedski names two contenders ready to challenge Djokovic and Nadal

ATP Tour

Kevin Palmer
April 18, 2022

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal are the red-hot favourites to win next month’s French Open, but former British No 1 Greg Rusedski suspects two more names could get in the mix for the big prize in Paris this year.

Djokovic will be vying to win his 21st Grand Slam title and join Nadal at the top of the all-time list of major winners, but uncertain form from the Serbian amid a lack of match practice has undermined his aura.

That may give newcomers a chance to challenge the world No 1 in Paris an Rusedski thinks the winners of the last two Masters 1000 events could be knocking on his door.

Carlos Alcaraz was impressive as he won the Miami Open and Stefanos Tsitsipas confirmed his prowess on clay as he defended the Monte Carlos Masters title last weekend, with Rusedksi telling Amazon Prime that both could contend at Roland Garros.

“What a performance to win back-to-back titles,” said Rusedski. “We saw the list of six champions to do that. All of the other names were No.1s and Roland Garros champions.

“It’s exciting times for men’s tennis. You also have to give a lot of credit to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. He’s had a fantastic week.

“There’s nothing to be ashamed about in his first final. He beat Djokovic and (Taylor) Fritz as well. I’m sure he’ll be back in a final again – maybe not at Masters level – but in the 250s and 500s.”

When asked about Alcaraz’s hopes of success on clay in the next few weeks, Rusedski added: “He’s just that good. He’s a phenom. He is ridiculously good.

“He won Miami and only lost this week to an inspired Seb Korda where he still had his chances. I’m putting him in the conversation for the Roland Garros title because he is special.”

Carlos Alcaraz Novak Djokovic Rafael Nadal Stefanos Tsitsipas