Can Carlos Alcaraz take Rafael Nadal’s crown? – French Open talking points

The king of clay will be absent in Paris due to injury.

Roland Garros will have a very different feel this year with Rafael Nadal absent for the first time in nearly two decades.

But, while the king of clay will be much missed, two major trophies are on the line and a host of young pretenders bidding to claim the silverware.

Here, the PA news agency picks out five talking points for the Parisian fortnight.

Can Alcaraz take Nadal’s crown?

Spanish tennis fans should not feel too sorry for themselves because the heir to Nadal’s place at the top of the sport is already here. Having only just turned 20, Carlos Alcaraz has already won his first grand-slam title at the US Open and this week reclaimed the world number one ranking. As confident on hard courts as clay, Alcaraz is an astounding athlete while his all-round game and calm temperament belong to a much more experienced player. There is a lot of hype but boy is it justified.

How fit is Djokovic?

Novak Djokovic wears a protective sleeve over his elbow in Rome — Novak Djokovic is wearing a protective sleeve over his elbow in Rome (Andrew Medichini/AP)

Swiatek hat-trick?

Last year it seemed inevitable Iga Swiatek would win a second French Open title, and she duly brushed aside all comers on an unbeaten run that eventually ended at 37 matches. This season has been different, though. The Pole has struggled at times with the expectation on her shoulders, while there have been physical issues, too. A WTA big three is emerging comprising of Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina, and the 21-year-old’s number one ranking could soon be under threat.

Norrie carries British hopes

Cameron Norrie in Rome — Cameron Norrie will bid to reach the fourth round in Paris for the first time (Andrew Medichini/AP)

Night session equality?

Caroline Garcia is France's leading light — Caroline Garcia is France’s leading light (Antonietta Baldassarre/AP)