French Open 2025: Players to Watch Based on Pre-Tournament Form

In Paris, France, the 2025 French Open is set to begin at Roland Garros, where the red clay will host tennis’s most prestigious clay-court event. As the tournament approaches this May, attention turns to the standout performers across the ATP and WTA tours who have gained momentum during the early clay season. With rising stars, resurgent veterans, and top seeds all entering in strong form, the stage is set for compelling storylines. This year’s tournament will showcase why Roland Garros remains a proving ground for players seeking to solidify legacies or make breakthrough runs on one of tennis’s most demanding surfaces.

Men’s Draw: Emerging Stories and Returning Firepower

The men’s field in 2025 is defined by shifting narratives—top seeds in form, comeback arcs taking shape, and young stars ready to disrupt the hierarchy.

Jannik Sinner: Back with Intent

Jannik Sinner has reclaimed headlines not just with his return in Rome but with the sheer dominance he’s displayed since returning. Despite a suspension disrupting his season, the Italian quickly regained rhythm, winning his first tournament back and extending his unbeaten streak. With impressive stats across all surfaces and fresh confidence, Sinner enters Paris as a top favorite. His controlled aggression and improved stamina are particularly suited to the demands of five-set clay-court matches. Sinner’s calm under pressure could be decisive on the Parisian dirt.

Carlos Alcaraz: Unpredictable but Dangerous

As the defending champion, Carlos Alcaraz remains a major threat, though his recent performances have sparked discussion. Inconsistency, especially on serve, has disrupted his rhythm. Yet his explosiveness and ability to switch gears mid-match give him a competitive edge. His earlier wins this season on clay show that when locked in, few can counter his pace and variety. Alcaraz thrives under the spotlight, and the energy of Roland Garros may well ignite his form again.

That blend of recent struggles and proven pedigree has kept French Open tennis odds markets in flux. Bettors and analysts alike are watching closely to see whether the defending champion can rediscover his peak level in time for another title run.

Alexander Zverev: Seeking Redemption

Alexander Zverev may have fallen short of expectations during this year’s clay season, but his confidence remains intact heading into Paris. The German has cited small technical tweaks and believes his game is built for the long grind of a Grand Slam, where momentum can shift rapidly. With a history of deep runs at Roland Garros—powered by a strong serve and relentless baseline endurance—Zverev remains a dangerous presence. If he rediscovers his rhythm early, his combination of experience and resilience could make him a disruptive force in the draw.

Jack Draper: Surging into the Spotlight

The rise of Jack Draper has been one of this season’s most notable storylines. Having cracked the top five and secured a Masters 1000 title, Draper is more than just a new name. His transition to clay has been smoother than anticipated. He’s notched wins over Alcaraz and Taylor Fritz, proving he can compete with the best. With a composed demeanor and increasingly aggressive shot selection, Draper is on the cusp of a breakthrough on the Grand Slam stage.

Novak Djokovic: The Veteran

Approaching his 38th birthday, Novak Djokovic faces both physical setbacks and rising competition. Early exits on clay this season have raised doubts, yet his track record at majors can’t be dismissed. Djokovic remains one of the most strategic players in the sport, and his ability to adjust mid-tournament is unparalleled. While his form might not be ideal, his mental resilience and experience may still carry him further than expected.

Women’s Draw: Momentum and Mastery Collide

This year’s women’s draw features a high-stakes mix of seasoned clay specialists and fast-rising challengers, all entering Paris with momentum and ambition.

Iga Swiatek: Queen of Clay

There is no denying Iga Swiatek’s dominance on clay. The four-time French Open champion enters 2025 with a target on her back but also with unmatched confidence at Roland Garros. Though her season has had minor stumbles, her ability to recalibrate on clay is elite. Swiatek’s heavy topspin forehand and court movement continue to unsettle opponents, and she will be aiming to make it five titles in six years.

Aryna Sabalenka: Power Meets Patience

Sabalenka’s evolution from a power-hitter to a more balanced clay-court player has been evident this year. Her hard-court success earlier in the season has translated into promising results on clay, with deeper tournament runs and measured performances. Sabalenka’s serve remains a weapon, but her improved point construction makes her a real contender in Paris. She enters the tournament with confidence, looking to claim her first French Open title.

Coco Gauff: Closing the Gap

Coco Gauff has silenced critics with strong performances on clay this spring. Her appearance in the Madrid final, which included a dominant win over Swiatek, signals a significant shift. Gauff’s movement, patience, and court positioning have improved. Now 21, she combines youthful energy with more strategic depth. If she can maintain consistency across long matches, her shot at a maiden Slam title is very real this year.

Jelena Ostapenko: Back in Business

Former champion Jelena Ostapenko is once again showing signs of brilliance. Her recent title in Stuttgart and wins over high-ranking opponents reaffirm her dangerous potential. She continues to play high-risk tennis, but with greater shot tolerance and decision-making. Ostapenko’s game can unravel quickly—but when it clicks, it’s electric. If her serve holds up, she could wreak havoc in any section of the draw.

Mirra Andreeva: The Teenage X-Factor

At just 17, Mirra Andreeva has already proven her composure against elite competition. A semifinalist at last year’s French Open, she brings a level of maturity that defies her age. Her recent upset of Swiatek at Indian Wells suggests she’s unfazed by reputation. Andreeva’s fluid movement and tactical mindset make her well-suited for clay. While she’s still learning, her trajectory suggests another deep run could be in store.

For those tracking the latest tennis updates, Andreeva’s steady rise has become one of the sport’s most compelling stories. Each tournament adds to her credibility—and in Paris, she has another chance to solidify her status as a future star.

Outside Shots and Dark Horses

Wildcard entrants like Destanee Aiava and Tristan Schoolkate offer compelling side stories. While their chances of going far are slim, early-round upsets could shape the draw. Gabriel Diallo, fresh off a standout Madrid run, is also one to watch. His aggressive baseline game and recent top-20 victory add intrigue. While the spotlight will remain on household names, early-round fireworks often come from these unseeded players looking to make a name.