Roland Garros 2018: Rafael Nadal is the favorite, but these 5 players can challenge him

3. Stan Wawrinka

Stan Wawrinka

“Stan the Man” is a former champion at Roland Garros and also last year’s finalist. Boasting of a single handed backhand as potent as that of Gustavo Kuerten or Richard Gasquet, Wawrinka is a multiple Grand Slam winner who is often overshadowed by his more illustrious compatriot.

Wawrinka's court coverage and overall base-line game are pretty solid. He demonstrated his ability on clay again last year when he beat Andy Murray in an incredible match.

Injuries have been a deterrent to him this year, but if he manages to stay fit and adds a bit more intensity to his game, there is no reason why he should not be able to match, if not better, last year’s feat.

Wawrinka has lived in Federer's shadow at times but that does not take away from the fact that he is a very good player himself. He has the experience of winning big matches too.

Career head to head against Nadal: 3-16

2018 win-loss record: 4-4