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Will we have a new women’s champion at Roland Garros?


Since 2011 the two biggest names in women’s tennis have dominated at Roland Garros, with Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova both winning the title twice in that period. But as the 2016 tournament approaches some will be hoping the event re-establishes its reputation as a happy hunting ground for players yet to win a major trophy. Between 2003 and 2011 Henin, Myskina, Ivanovic, Schiavone and Li all won their first Grand Slam titles in Paris.

French Open draw: Muguruza, Halep and Radwanska all in bottom half of draw

Williams is still the world No.1, but change may be in the air at the top of women’s tennis at Roland Garros. The American, who at 34 is already the oldest player ever to top the world rankings, won her first title in nine months at last week’s Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome.

“Women’s tennis is changing,” Radwanska said. “A lot of girls have the opportunity now to win a Grand Slam or be top five or be No.1. Everything is possible for everyone. It’s a very different story to the men’s side, which is dominated by a couple of guys. There’s not much space there for anyone else. With us it’s different.”

This is an extract from “Maiden Title” by Paul Newman in tennishead Volume 7 Issue 2. For more great features, in-depth gear reviews and stunning images subscribe to tennishead today. ´è_´è_´è_


Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.