After the debacle of Madrid, it’s back to the familiar red dirt of Rome, which boasts the Big 4 again.
The rankings finally are interesting again with Roger up to #2 with Rafa looking to hit back. In fact, Roger is the only one not with much to prove this tournament unusually.
Let’s break it down:
ATP Level: 1000
Surface: Red Clay
Defending Champion: Novak Djokovic – Looking to rebound from Madrid exit to Tipsarevic
Sleeper: Juan Del Potro – The big man lost his footing too much in Madrid but could bounce back
On the Slide : Juan Carlos Ferrero – Won Rome in 2001 and hopefully those memories will re-awaken the dirt devil
On Fire: Roger Federer - May not find the same advantages on the slower Rome clay this time
My pick: Rafael Nadal – Rome is back in his wheelhouse and the lost ranking position will have him fired up
Did You Know? The only players to have won Rome 3 times or more are Rafael Nadal (5) and Thomas Muster (3)
Watch: Rome Uncovered
Thanks for reading and check back next week for more tips, news and musings!
