RepGuardian

The eyes of the world will soon be shifting to Paris, and the Roland Garros Stadium, for the 2009 French Open. Running May 24th through June 7th, this year’s Open promises to deliver the same caliber of rigorous Grand Slam tennis of years past. The French Open is the second of the four Grand Slam events, widely regarded as the world’s most prestigious series of tournaments.

The slower ball and higher bounce associated with clay court tennis is but one challenge. Due to the five-set men’s singles matches, with no tiebreaker; many have called The French Openthe most physically demanding tournament in the world.

The red clay courts of Roland Garros Stadium have proven to be a hindrance to many of the world’s greats. Jimmy Connors, Martina Hingis, John McEnroe, Maria Sharapova, Pete Sampras and Roger Federer have all failed to bring home the French Open trophy, but there are some players who can work the nuances of the courts to their advantage. Much like a Chef specializing in a regional cuisine, playing on the courts of Roland Garros requires a more specific touch, and the number of players who feel at home here reads like a who’s who of champion’s.

In this year’s event Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova will give the French Open title another effort, while Novak Djokovic will attempt to add the second Grand Slam event to his Australian Open victory. Rafael Nadal, along with Serena Williams and Andrew Murray, are looking all looking very strong, and expected to shine.

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