Andy Murray
World No.1 | Best result: Runner-up (2016)
Since finishing runner-up to Novak Djokovic at Court Philippe Chatrier last year, Murray won his second Wimbledon and Olympic Gold, becoming No.1 for the first time in November. But his recent form has been patchy. Although clay is his least favourite surface, he has steadily improved in Paris, reaching the last four in 2014 and 2015 and the final in 2016. He remains a favourite to go deep.
Novak Djokovic
World No. 2 | Best result: Winner (2016)
Incredibly consistent on the red dirt of Roland Garros, Djokovic made the last four in 2011 and 2013, finished runner-up in 2012, 2014 and 2015, and completed an incredible Career Slam in 2016, becoming the first player since Rod Laver to hold all four Majors at once. But like his British rival, Murray, he too has been having a rough 2017. A lot will be expected of him.
Stan Wawrinka
World No. 3 | Best result: Winner (2015)
The Swiss No.1 has been both steady and spectacular here over the last few years. He reached the quarters in 2013, the semis in 2016 and won the tournament in 2015, beating Djokovic in the final. Wawrinka’s point-ending power on clay and his knowledge of winning in Paris make him a contender.
LOOK OUT FOR
Milos Raonic
World No. 6 | Best result: Quarterfinals (2014)
The Canadian isn’t reputed to be great on clay, but has the weapons to cause a scare.
Dominic Thiem
World No. 7 | Best result: Semifinals (2016)
Thiem’s run to the semis last year and his recent victory over Nadal in Rome prove he can’t be taken lightly.
Alexander Zverev
World No. 10 | Best result: Third round (2016)
World tennis’ most exciting young talent, the 20-year-old German is 16-3 on clay this year, with wins over Djokovic and Wawrinka, and titles at Rome and Munich.
David Goffin
World No. 11 | Best result: Quarterfinals (2016)
Goffin has the game to beat the best, as Djokovic found out at the Monte Carlo Masters, but hasn’t so far been able to translate that into trophies.
