The French Open begins two weeks from today but not before back-to-back premier tournaments in Madrid and Rome. Busted Racquet insider Patrick Mouratoglou breaks down the women's field at the first of clay court's big three, Madrid:
Victoria Azarenka: Hottest player on clay?
We've been waiting for the young player (she was born in 1989) to break out for some time and she's now on a roll since winning in Miami. Clay should really suit her game considering the topspin she can put on her forehand and her great footwork. The Belarusian is injury-prone and is still sensitive on the court though. But after Madrid and Rome, we'll know if it's realistic to picture her with the trophy in Paris.
Can Wozniacki catch a Slam?
Caroline Wozniacki is the other player of the moment. She's winning nearly every event she's entering, except one, of course. All she lacks now is a Grand Slam. She'll be in top spot for the French Open if she can clinch victories in Madrid and Rome, namely because of the confidence boost she'll get and the subsequent drain to that of her rivals'.
Stosur and Schiavone running late
Both finalists of the last Roland Garros are playing catch-up this season. We could have thought they'd find back their inspiration while walking again on clay but it hasn't happened yet. The pressure of the event coming in a few weeks seems to have stifled their games rather than unleash it. They have two more tournaments left in order to find the confidence back in order to be calm enough when the French Open will come.