It is time for the second slam of the 2008 season. I don’t think anyone predicted that the tennis landscape would look as it now does. Federer is a shell of his former self and Henin is adjusting to retirement. Nadal seems to have lost a bit of his fight and Sharapova has prepared for the event.
So…here, in my humble and amateur opinion, are my predictions for this year’s French Open.
Best Shots at Winning
Men: Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer
Women: Maria Sharapova, Ana Ivonovic, Serena Williams
Worth Mentioning
I think we’re going to see James Blake make a strong showing during this year’s French Open.
I also predict that Mardy Fish is going to make it into the 3rd round which will be a monumental feat for him.
Sharapova is going to play her best clay court tennis, yet, but she’ll come up a bit short.
I won’t be surprised if Amelie Mauresmo makes a run at the title. She doesn’t have too many opportunties left and the French will be cheering on their native daughter.
Champions
Men: Djokovic – I think it’s going to be either Rafa or Novak and (I can’t believe I’m saying this!) I think Novak wants it more.
Women: Serena Williams – Without Justine in the field there’s no excuse for Serena not to win this event.
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Happy 5th birthday to WordPress.
My predictions are exactly the same and for nearly the same reasons. I think Novak “The Joker” will win the Men’s. Nadal is the king of clay but he’s not playing like it. Women’s I’m not as in tune with but watching Williams play the other day it’s hard to imagine someone besting her. And Amelie definitely wants this one, but I just don’t see that happening.