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Angelique Kerber: breaking down her opening match at Roland Garros

By Harry Floyd

Aug 19, 2016; Mason, OH, USA; Angelique Kerber (GER) returns a shot against Carla Suarez Navarro (ESP) in the quarterfinals during the Western and Southern tennis tournament at Linder Family Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 19, 2016; Mason, OH, USA; Angelique Kerber (GER) returns a shot against Carla Suarez Navarro (ESP) in the quarterfinals during the Western and Southern tennis tournament at Linder Family Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /
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Angelique Kerber comes into play at Roland Garros as the top seeded player. Here’s a look at the world No. 1’s opening round match.

Angelique Kerber is the world No.1 in women’s singles tennis.

She opens play at Roland Garros against Ekaterina Makarova on Sunday. Here’s a preview of the meeting between Makarova and the top seeded Kerber.

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Kerber is 7-4 against Makarova throughout her career.

Most recently, the two met at Stuttgart in 2015. They were set to play again in Sydney last year but Kerber had to withdraw. Before their potential meeting in Sydney, Kerber had edged Makarova in their previous four matches.

The German tennis star is in need of a strong performance. There is no better place to get her 2017 WTA Tour back on track than at the French Open. With American Serena Williams missing time for her pregnancy, Kerber has a chance to extend her hold over the world No. 1 position.

She will, however, have to contend with the likes of Simona Halep among others at Roland Garros. Her opening round match against Makarova cannot be taken lightly.

Angelique Kerber has a lot to play for at the French Open.

Makarova is a former world No. 8 in women’s singles tennis. The Russian tennis player has years of experience on tour and can claim two WTA singles titles to her name. She has also reached the fourth round at Roland Garros twice in her career.

Angelique Kerber must prove that the ups and downs she has seen in 2017 are a thing of the past. A decisive opening match victory will serve her well moving forward at the French Open. Stay tuned to see how the top seeded Kerber fares against Makarova.

Next: Top 10 Men's Singles Players in Open Era

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