The results of the second Grand Slam tennis tournament of the year at the 2010 French Open matter in different ways for each of the top eight men.  So what’s at stake for each of the players?    

Roger Federer – Although he’s the defending champion, most consider Nadal the favorite and so it’s more about pride and competitive spirit, especially since he just lost to Rafa at the final clay court tune-up in Madrid…

Rafael Nadal – “He’s back”, he wants “his trophy” back and after an incredible clay court season, everyone expects him to win… just a little pressure!

Novak Djokovic – He needs a strong showing to reestablish himself as a player capable of winning Grand Slams and knocking on the door of the top ranking…

Andy Murray – He’s not had a strong post-Australian Open swing, but a decent result in Paris would position him well to really challenge for the title at Wimbledon…

Robin Soderling – He’s backed up his final round appearance at Roland Garros last year with fine play over the past twelve months, but he now has a lot of points to defend…

Andy Roddick – After a strong winter hard-court season, he has yet to play a clay court match so maybe consider Roland Garros more as a prep tournament for Wimbledon this year…

Fernando Verdasco – He’s played very well during the clay court season, but can he showcase the same tennis on the “big stage” and go deep in another Grand Slam as he did “down under” a year ago?

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga – As the top-ranked Frenchman, he may feel the weight of his countrymen on his shoulders… but they are very broad shoulders!