Here’s a quick review of the colourful events that have been held over the past month or so in the lead up to Roland Garros.

The Red Clay

Monte Carlo

Rafael Nadal defeated Novak Djokovic to win his eighth straight Monte Carlo title.

Barcelona

Rafael Nadal defeated David Ferrer to win the Barcelona Open for a record seventh time.

Rome

After an extended rain delay that pushed the final to Monday 21 May, Rafael Nadal defeated defending champion Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win the Rome title for the sixth time, which is his 21st ATP 1000 Masters title.

After a week ranked No.3 while Roger Federer was ranked No.2, following his win in Rome Rafa will regain the No.2 ranking position this week, prior to Roland Garros.

The Blue Clay

Madrid

This year, the Mutua Madrid Open was played on blue clay. Roger Federer won the tournament, defeating Tomas Berdych. It was his 20th ATP World Tour Masters 1000 trophy.

Links to info about Madrid, including the issues related to the blue clay courts:

• A great review Old Bosses, New Bosses

• Details of Verdasco’s win against Nadal including Rafa’s comments about the courts.

• Djokovic’s comments about the courts after his loss

The Yellow and Red

Spain has more top players at the moment than any other country. Find out the secret of their success in this ATP video.

What’s on now?

This week there are tournaments in Dusseldorf and Nice where some of the men will continue their preparation for Roland Garros.

Until next time

Grand Slam Gal