The clay season begins in earnest this week with the men contesting the Monte Carlo Masters in Monaco.
Most of the women will be in Fed Cup action although there is one WTA event taking place, in Colombia, where Elina Svitolina is the only top-40 player in the draw.
Novak Djokovic is obviously the overwhelming favourite for every event he enters, but here’s a look at some names who can do some damage this clay stretch…
DOMINIC THIEM
The Austrian has been sensational so far in 2016, rising to No14 in the world, winning two titles and amassing a 24-6 record. Considering clay is his favourite surface and the swing is only just getting under way, one can only imagine what the 22-year-old can do in the next two months. He’s a potential tough third round for Nadal in Monaco.
STAN WAWRINKA
The reigning French Open champion is the only player not named Rafael Nadal or Novak Djokovic to win in Monte Carlo in the last 11 years. He’s had an underwhelming March but should find his footing on European clay.
incredible shot by ?? @stanwawrinka in @MCROLEXMASTERS 2014 #Wawrinka #MonteCarloRolex pic.twitter.com/ncuTABRLjB
— danielle (@dm_mauron) April 5, 2016
DAVID GOFFIN
Another player who has had tremendous success this year before getting to his favourite surface. Keep an eye out for the Belgian, as he closes in on a top-10 debut.
MILOS RAONIC
His results in 2016 look like this: W, SF, F, QF. His net-rushing may not be as effective on clay as it’s been on hard courts but he’s in the form of his life and that serve is lethal anywhere.
ANDY MURRAY
Had his best clay season ever last year and will be hoping for a repeat.
RAFAEL NADAL
He may not be the same Rafa we know but he’s still THE King of Clay. It feels like it’s now or never for the Spaniard and April is historically his most productive month.
