✍️ Kaustubh Thakur

🗓️ Apr 3, 2024

The hard courts have seen their share of thrilling rallies and incredible contests, but now it’s time for clay. The Monte Carlo Masters will officially kick off the Clay season running till the legendary Rolland Garros in Paris.

Gearing up all around Europe

There was a small clay court leg in South America earlier in the year, however, the main event kicks off in Europe in April. Monte Carlo and Barcelona become battlegrounds for top players, with the prestigious Monte Carlo Masters setting the tone for the weeks ahead. This tournament is a favorite among many, known for its stunning setting and the chance to see players test their skills on the iconic clay courts.

Building Towards Roland Garros

As the European swing progresses, the intensity and hype will build up. Tournaments in Madrid and Rome offer another opportunity for players to rack up points and find their form. But everyone has their eyes set on the ultimate prize: The French Open AKA Roland Garros. Here, champions are crowned, and legacies are built. Players known for their defensive prowess and athleticism tend to thrive on clay which makes the Roland Garros a spectacle of long rallies, strategic plays, and incredible displays of endurance and resilience.

When will the ‘King of Clay’ return?

For many years, Rafael Nadal has dominated the clay court season. His nickname, “The King of Clay,” speaks volumes about his mastery of the surface. However, with injuries plaguing Nadal in recent times and there isn’t any news on his return yet. Nadal was supposed to be back for the Indiana Wells Open but ended up withdrawing. Nadal’s absence means that others can breathe a sigh of relief as even at this age Nadal can be a menace. In his absence Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz are favorites. The former in particular will be keen to cement his legacy even further with a dominant clay season.

Read more about A Decade of Dominance – Rafael Nadal the Undisputed King Of Clay

Clay Season Full Schedule:

• Monte-Carlo Masters (Monte Carlo, Monaco): April 9-16
• Barcelona Open (Barcelona, Spain): April 17-23
• Stuttgart Open (Stuttgart, Germany): April 15-21
• BMW Open by American Express (Munich, Germany): April 22-28 (Dates to be confirmed)
• Mutua Madrid Open (Madrid, Spain): April 23-May 7
• Internazionali BNL d’Italia (Rome, Italy): May 8-21
• Roland-Garros (French Open, Paris): May 28-June 11