Rafael Nadal: French Open ’tough’ prediction made about world No 2
RAFAEL NADAL has been backed to win an 11th French Open title because nobody can compete with him on clay.
Highlights of Nadal’s incredible victory over Dzumhur in Rome
Rafael Nadal is warming up for Roland Garros at the Italian Open this week and takes on Denis Shapovalov in the third round later today.
The Spaniard hasn’t won in Rome since 2013 but is the heavy favourite to clinch the title this weekend.
He has once again dominated the clay-court season, winning in both Monte-Carlo and Barcelona before a small setback in Madrid where he suffered a shock defeat to Dominic Thiem.
But a second round blowout win over Damir Dzumhur showed that he looks on top of his game right now leading up to the French Open.
And three-time doubles Grand Slam champion Mark Knowles can’t see past the 31-year-old winning in Paris.
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“I’m going to go out on a strong limb and go with Rafael Nadal,” Knowles said on the Tennis Channel.
“There’s a couple of guys - Zverev, Thiem, Del Potro.
“But I just think over three out of five sets it’s a totally different equation.
“He just looks too strong and I really like Rafa.”
Former world No 1 Lindsay Davenport echoed her co-commentator’s comments, suggesting there is a fear factor from other players when they face Nadal on clay.
“This isn’t a tough call, it’s Rafa,” Davenport said.
“He is by far the commanding favourite. He is more physical; he loves the clay.
“Everyone is intimidated playing him. He looks fit and motivated. I think it’s Rafa’s year.”
