Roland Garros 2025: Key Talking Points Ahead of French Open
The second Grand Slam of the year is just over a week away, and attention is turning to the big stories expected to unfold when the tennis world gathers in Paris for the 2025 French Open.
Jannik Sinner has returned successfully to the court after serving a three-month drug ban, and the clay season so far has thrown up a number of surprise results.
With several big-name players entering tournaments the week before Roland Garros, hoping to sharpen their clay-court form, all eyes are now on Paris where some fascinating battles are expected.
SINNER vs ALCARAZ: A Final Showdown Looming?
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, the current top stars in men’s tennis, are set to be the top two seeds at Roland Garros — meaning they cannot face each other until the final.
Alcaraz defeated Sinner in Paris last year, and both players split the Grand Slam titles in 2024. However, there are questions over Alcaraz’s fitness, while Sinner looks refreshed and motivated.
Verdict: Sinner seems to have the upper hand heading into Paris.
SWIATEK’S STRUGGLES CONTINUE
Iga Swiatek has won the French Open four times since 2020, but her recent form has been far from convincing.
A 6-1, 6-1 loss to Coco Gauff in Madrid and another straight-sets defeat to Danielle Collins in Rome have raised concerns. Her game has looked shaky, and unless she finds her rhythm quickly, defending her title could prove too difficult.
Verdict: Swiatek’s form has dropped sharply, and she may not be ready to lift a fifth title in Paris.
DJOKOVIC – STILL A CONTENDER?
Novak Djokovic, now approaching 38, has entered more ATP tournaments this year in an effort to stay sharp. But the plan may have backfired, with questions around his motivation and energy levels.
Though he won Olympic gold in Paris last summer, his current form doesn’t suggest he’s ready to win another Grand Slam.
Verdict: Djokovic can never be ruled out, but he doesn’t look ready for a serious title challenge at this year’s French Open.
A SURPRISE WINNER IN THE WOMEN’S DRAW?
With Swiatek out of form, Aryna Sabalenka has become the top favourite for the title. However, she has never reached the final in Paris and has shown weaknesses on clay, losing recently to Jelena Ostapenko and Zheng Qinwen.
Italian star Jasmine Paolini has made a strong case for herself with a run to the Italian Open final, and Coco Gauff could be a serious threat — if she can fix her serving problems.
Verdict: Gauff, expected to be the No. 2 seed, could be the one to beat unless her inconsistencies get in the way.
What’s Next?
With Roland Garros fast approaching, all eyes are now on the final tune-up events and how the top names handle the pressure. Paris promises drama, surprises, and possibly new champions.
