Favorites to Win the Title at Roland Garros 2026

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With the countdown already activated for the start of Roland Garros 2026, the second Grand Slam of the season comes with a completely different scenario than expected just a few weeks ago. The absence of Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning champion in Paris and the main threat on clay for Jannik Sinner, has left a much more open stage… or at least as open as it can be when there is such a clear dominator of the circuit.

Because the Italian arrives in Paris after an almost perfect tour: champion of the three Masters 1000 played on clay, absolute dominator of the ATP ranking, and recently crowned in Rome after completing the Golden Masters, becoming the youngest player in history to win all nine Masters 1000 on tour. The feeling is that Sinner plays in a different league than the rest. However, Roland Garros is a Grand Slam, physical wear is maximum, and any small setback can open a door to other contenders. The big question is evident: who can challenge the Italian for the throne in Paris?

Sinner, several steps above the rest

Talking about favorites in Roland Garros 2026 implies starting with one name and, several steps later, continuing with the rest. Sinner is the top contender for the title, and there is practically no debate about it. He has won three consecutive Masters 1000 on clay, arrives with immense confidence, and, in addition, has the historic opportunity to complete the Career Grand Slam after already conquering Australia, Wimbledon, and the US Open.

However, even amidst his dominance, there are some doubts. The physical condition of the Italian has shown signs of wear in recent tournaments, especially when matches extend or the mental battle becomes particularly demanding. In Rome, for example, both Daniil Medvedev and Casper Ruud tried to prolong the points and make him work physically more than necessary. The mission seems almost impossible, but Roland Garros tends to punish the body much more than any Masters 1000.

Zverev, Djokovic, and Ruud lurking

In the absence of Alcaraz, many eyes turn towards Alexander Zverev as the second top favorite. The German, world No. 3, has an important advantage: by ranking, he would avoid facing Sinner until a hypothetical final. Furthermore, he remains one of the most consistent players over five sets and in these types of tournaments, rarely disappearing before the final rounds.

Nevertheless, mental doubts continue to haunt him. In Rome, he left very poor impressions when the match took a turn, and that psychological fragility that has penalized him on many decisive occasions resurfaced. Still, due to his consistency and experience, it is challenging to rule him out.

Behind them is a quiet classic: Casper Ruud. Twice a finalist in Paris, a clay court specialist, and one of the most reliable players on the circuit when the calendar hits the clay. Perhaps he doesn't possess the tennis to overcome Sinner under normal conditions, but he has the skill and consistency to capitalize on any chaos in the tournament.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSLdmwfr3uA

Fils and Medvedev, unexpected threats

If there is a name that especially excites the French audience for Roland Garros, it is Arthur Fils. The Frenchman is having the best clay court season of his career, and many see him as the only player capable of truly troubling Sinner on pure tennis skills. Playing at home, arriving in great form, and seemingly having prepared for this tournament as an absolute priority. His major doubt remains his physical condition and experience in long Grand Slam matches, an area where he still has much to prove.

More surprising would be the case of Medvedev, historically uncomfortable on clay, although his recent performances against Sinner suggest a competitive scenario if the Russian manages to advance rounds and finds favorable conditions, particularly in night matches where the bounce is less aggressive.

Regardless, the general feeling is clear. Roland Garros 2026 starts as Jannik Sinner's tournament... with the rest trying to find a way to overthrow him.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Favoritos para ganar el título en Roland Garros 2026