Greg Rusedski names two contenders ready to challenge Djokovic and Nadal
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.”
Latest
-
ATP Tour
Carlos Alcaraz forced to accept brutal reality as he slumps to shock Miami Open defeat
Carlos Alcaraz could have no complaints as he was forced to accept the brutal reality that he was beaten by a better player.
-
Tennis News
Alexander Zverev just happy to be back competing against the best
Alexander Zverev has said that he savours being competitive in big tournaments.
-
Tennis News
WTA star announces that she is expecting a baby girl
Alison Riske-Amritraj will be having a daughter.
-
ATP Tour
Jannik Sinner breaks new ground for an Italian player with $20 million milestone
Jannik Sinner will become the first Italian player to bank $20 million in ATP Tour prize money after the Miami Open.
-
Tennis News
Carlos Alcaraz identifies key Grigor Dimitrov threat as he seeks revenge in Miami showdown
Carlos Alcaraz and Grigor Dimitrov have looked ahead to their Miami Open match.
-
WTA Tour
Charleston Open hand former No 1 wildcard to start her clay season
Wildcards were forthcoming for former world No 1 Caroline Wozniacki, world No 13 Beatriz Haddad Maia, and Charleston-native Shelby Rogers.
-
Tennis News
Former world No 1 weighs in on Iga Swiatek’s ‘aura’ as he makes ‘intimidating’ claim
“The more accomplishments Iga Swiatek has, the more intimidating it is to play her.”
-
WTA Tour
Naomi Osaka’s clay swing fills out with Rouen wildcard
Naomi Osaka gets Rouen wildcard to kickstart her clay swing.
-
WTA Tour
Danielle Collins balks at being asked to explain retirement
Danielle Collins has responded to those who question why she has decided to retire from tennis at the end of the current season.
-
Tennis News
‘Novak Djokovic’s problem is psychological’, assesses Roger Federer’s former coach
“Undoubtedly, ‘Nole’ must have fire inside, otherwise he is missing something.”