The French Open returns this week, with much of the talk of the men’s competition focusing on the one and only Rafael Nadal.
The King of Clay is making his final appearance at Roland Garros, with the Spaniard set to retire from the sport.
Fans will, of course, want the veteran to go all the way in France, but there will be plenty of players standing in his way.
One major stumbling block comes in the form of Alexander Zverev, with Nadal drawn against the German in the first round. A planned practice session between the pair has since had to be cancelled due to their upcoming competitive clash.
But one other man with his eyes firmly fixed on the prize is defending champion and world number one Novak Djokovic.
Sam Querrey notices upbeat Novak Djokovic ahead of French Open
The Serbian has, however, yet to win a title this year, and recently suffered a shock early exit in the Italian Open.
But despite that lack of form, former player Sam Querrey believes the 37-year-old is in good spirits ahead of the French Open, and so can enjoy a strong run.
“Even watching him not having the results, he seems pretty happy,” Querrey said on The French Connection.
“Even these tournaments where he’s losing early, you still see him sign autographs as he walks off the court, he seems like he is in a good mood week in and week out.
“If he wins one match at the French, I feel like the confidence will be there and he will make a good run.”
How far will Novak Djokovic go at the French Open?
Unlike the nightmare draw for Nadal, Djokovic has been handed a relatively straightforward opening round tie against French wildcard Pierre-Hugues Herbert.
He will be expected to come out on top in that affair, despite those struggles in Rome, where he lost in the round of 32 to Alejandro Tabilo.
The Serbian is, however, currently going strong at the Geneva Open, where he has secured a semi-final spot after beating Tallon Griekspoor 7-5, 6-1.
A victory in Switzerland would come at the perfect time for Djokovic ahead of a highly-anticipated Roland Garros return.
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