The second grand slam, The French Open will serve off in Paris today. Both the men’s and women’s winners will earn €2.1 million (£1.8 million, $2.3 million) apiece as this year’s total prize money has been raised to €36 million.
Rafael Nadal aiming for his tenth title on the red dirt clay is the clear favourite on the men’s side having won titles on clay in Monaco, Barcelona and Madrid. Novak Djokovic is the defending champion in Paris, though his form hasn’t been spectacular in 2017, Novak with Andre Agassi as his new coach can’t be ruled out.
World number one, Andy Murray is struggling but can’t be rule out so is Stan Wawrinka. Nick Kyrgios, Alexander Zverev and Dominic Thiem are expected to give a good showing in Paris. Alexander Zverev defeated Novak Djokovic in Rome to capture his first Masters title. Thiem halted Rafa’s winning streak on clay at 17 matches in Rome.
The absence of Serena Williams of maternity leave makes the field open. Garbine Muguruza. is the defending champion of Roland Garros. Maria Sharapova won’t feature in Paris after failing to draw a wildcard from the authorities in the aftermath of her controversial doping return. Simona Halep is battling with fitness. No clear favourite on the women’s side.
