AS the COVID-19 pandemic continues, Draft Central is extending the fantasy tennis coverage throughout the ATP and WTA seasons to simulate tournaments and see just how they might have gone down. The next ATP instalment is the Madrid Open with a host of a-class talent set to take the court, making for an interesting battle.

FAVOURITE:

Novak Djokovic (Serbia)

After taking out the title last year, expect Djokovic to be hungry for more success again this year. Up against some highly talented opponents Djokovic will have to pull out all the stops to progress through to the final stage of the Madrid Open and claim his 81st title. The current world number one can do it all and although the Serbian is more commonly renowned for his prowess on hard court, he is equally as damaging on clay able to cover the court well and deliver. His high level of endurance and speed makes him a constant threat on the court, and paired with his never say die attitude Djokovic will be one to watch this tournament.

CONTENDERS:

Rafael Nadal (Spain)

There is no denying that Nadal is the most dominant tennis player in recent history to grace the clay courts. His ability to glide across the court and return serve is second to none while his experience and class is what makes him such a prominent threat especially on his preferred surface. The Spaniard is exciting to watch, able to do the unthinkable time and time again and with 87 titles to his name it is no surprise that he will be pushing to add to his trophy cabinet at the Madrid Open. The world number two is extremely competitive able to come back from a couple of sets down and push through.

Dominic Thiem (Austria)

Making it to the semi-finals last year, Thiem showcased plenty of grit, determination and skill to push past experienced opponents but ultimately could not get past eventual winner. The Austrian is no stranger to the big stage having won 16 titles throughout his career and will be looking to continue his hot form, currently ranked at third in the world. He is a force to be reckoned with especially when it comes to clay court with the 26-year-old extremely powerful and able to cover the court seamlessly.

Stefanos Tsitsipas (Greece)

The Greek star continues to get better as time goes by and at only 21 has already showed that he has the class, smarts and talent to mix it with the best. After making it to the final last year and falling just short of his sixth title thanks to Serbian powerhouse Djokovic, Tsitsipas will be hoping to go one further this year and further stamp his authority on the tennis world. Sitting at number six in the world, the Greek talent will be hoping to progress up the rankings with a win at the Madrid Open.

ROUGHIE:

 Cristian Garin (Chile)

The 24-year-old Chilean is quickly rising up the ranks, with his ability to prevail under pressure and deliver. Although he is up against some high quality opponents, Garin is no slouch able to fight his way out of a contest and stun players. with plenty of development left in him, Garin is currently ranked 18th and will be hoping to move up the rankings with a victory at the Madrid Open.

DARK HORSE:

Andy Murray (Great Britain)

The Brit knows what it takes to win and is a real competitor on the court, never out of the battle and constantly wowing people with his efforts. While he has not reached the highs of his earlier career there is no denying that Murray has the ability to win on his given day. The 33-year-old has 46 titles to his name and will be keen to get some more silverware in the Madrid Open. He is a classy player that is strong across the board with his movement and variety of shots.