When it comes to tournaments taking place on red clay surfaces, only a win at the French Open is considered a greater feat than standing victorious at the Italian Open. This year’s installment will showcase the world’s top tennis players when they clash from May 11-19 at the Foro Italico in Rome, Italy. With over $3.4 million on the line, wise money is banking on Rafael Nadal, AKA “The King of Clay,” to repeat as the men’s singles champion. In 2012, Nadal won his record sixth Italian Open title by overcoming No. 1 Novak Djokovic, 7-5, 6-3. The win was Nadal’s third such victory in four years, a streak that was interrupted by “The Djoker” in 2011, and it was certainly a feat, but relatively unsurprising considering the Spaniard’s 38 career titles on clay surfaces.
Nadal has three clay tournaments scheduled to tune-up his game prior to the 2013 Italian Open, so he should be well prepared to defend his crown. And after defeating No. 7 Juan Martin del Potro to claim the BNP Paribas Open on March 18, he’s full of confidence. Of course, Nadal will have to overcome usual suspects like No. 2 Andy Murray, No. 3 Roger Federer, and No. 4 David Ferrer, but he won’t be the only defending champion with a tough road ahead. Fans that purchase Italian Open tickets can also witness current world No. 2 Maria Sharapova showcase her prowess as she battles for her second consecutive women’s singles title. In 2012, she out-dueled world No. 5, Li Na, in a seemingly endless match. Both women showed their vigor by overcoming deep deficits, but Sharapova was able to persevere with a valiant 4–6, 6–4, 7–6 (5) victory. This year, No. 1 Serena Williams will be looking to reclaim the title, having won it back in 2002.
