Does Lorenzo Sonego stand a chance against Roger Federer?

ROME, ITALY - MAY 16: Roger Federer of Switzerland plays a backhand against Borna Coric of Croatia in their Men's Singles Round of 16 match during Day Five of the International BNL d'Italia at Foro Italico on May 16, 2019 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY - MAY 16: Roger Federer of Switzerland plays a backhand against Borna Coric of Croatia in their Men's Singles Round of 16 match during Day Five of the International BNL d'Italia at Foro Italico on May 16, 2019 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) /
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Roger Federer opens his time at the 2019 French Open against up and comer Lorenzo Sonego. Does his young challenger stand a chance?

With the 2019 French Open getting underway this weekend in both men’s and women’s tennis, all eyes turn to some of the greats like Roger Federer. The Swiss tennis legend is making a somewhat rare appearance at the clay court Grand Slam this year.

Federer is a former champion at Roland Garros, winning back in 2009. He is, however, not one to play during the entire clay court season in recent years. That changes in 2019.

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King of Clay Rafael Nadal is getting plenty of attention this week as he attempts to both defend his title in men’s singles and win a record 12 titles. As Nadal gears up for his own match, let’s dive deeper into how Federer should fare during his opener.

Federer is already among the top five favorites in mens’ singles at Roland Garros. He is arguably the greatest tennis player ever so there’s no reason to think he can’t make another deep run at the French Open despite limited play here as of late.

Can 24-year-old Lorenzo Sonego defeat the Swiss legend? The odds are stacked against him. We have to take Federer in this one. The young Italian tennis player reached the second round of qualifying last year at the French Open. His opening round appearance this year comes with maybe the best player to ever grace a court on the other side of the net.

Federer might have his work cut out for him if he hopes to take home a title, but he should oust Sonego with ease. The third seed takes on his young challenger on Sunday at Roland Garros. Sonego is the current world number 73 on the ATP Tour.

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Check back for updates on Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and all of the other heavy hitters in men’s singles tennis. The 2019 French Open is underway and everyone is aiming to take home the title.