Who Has More to Lose at the 2016 French Open: Novak Djokovic or Rafael Nadal?

Rafael Nadal’s win at the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters broke Novak Djokovic’s death grip on Masters 1000 championships. It also changed the dynamics of the 2016 French Open. 

Suddenly, Nadal’s clay-court prowess looms as large as Djokovic’s recent ATP World Tour dominance. 

But who has more to lose at Roland Garros: Nadal or Djokovic? 

The pressure on Djokovic to win his first French Open remains intense. Nadal’s win at Monte Carlo brings him back into the fold among those most likely to halt Djokovic’s run on ATP titles. 

Until his win over Gael Monfils in the final at Monte Carlo, Nadal had been the weakest link in the Big Four—Roger Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Andy Murray—this year. 

It’s been nearly two years since Nadal advanced beyond the quarterfinals at a Grand Slam. Aware of his struggles, Nadal spoke with the Associated Press (via U.S. News & World Reports) about the importance of his Monte Carlo win.  

“This week I was able to increase my level when things became tough, like I did before. That’s something I missed a lot….It has been a very important week. The victory confirms that I am better.”

I believe Nadal needed that win badly for his confidence. Look out, French Open (though I think Djokovic is still the favorite).

— Jill Martin (@Jill_CNN) April 17, 2016

Despite a disappointing year, Nadal’s win catapults him back to top-contender status. Perhaps it also seeps into Djokovic’s psyche. 

Until his loss to Jiri Vesely at Monte Carlo, Djokovic seemed unstoppable. It was his earliest defeat in three years on the ATP Tour. 

Nadal and Djokovic are tied at 28 for most …

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