French Open not wide open despite Rafael Nadal's withdrawal, believes John McEnroe's brother Patrick

Patrick McEnroe recently acknowledged that Rafael Nadal choosing not to play in the 2023 French Open means the tournament will have a different feel to it. But he doesn't align himself with the view that the event will be a free for all in the Spaniard's absence.

With 14-time Roland Garros champion Rafael Nadal missing this year due to injury, many believe Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic have an excellent opportunity to claim the title. Taking to Twitter on Tuesday, former French Open doubles champion Patrick McEnroe shared his thoughts on the men's playing field at the upcoming French Open.

"I understand that with @RafaelNadal out of this year's French Open, it will have a much different feel. But "wide open"???? Nope," he wrote.

Rafael Nadal has been out of action since the Australian Open, the year's first Grand Slam. He announced his decision to withdraw from Roland Garros at a press conference he called at his academy recently, while also hinting that 2024 could be his last on the tour.

Meanwhile, both Djokovic and Alcaraz exited earlier than they would have liked from the recently concluded Italian Open. Alcaraz was sent on his way by 115th-ranked Fabian Marozsan in the third round, while Djokovic was bundled out in the quarterfinals by Holger Rune.

The qualifying rounds of the French Open are currently in progress, and the main draw is scheduled to commence on May 28.

Will Rafael Nadal's withdrawal from French Open make Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic's life easier?

Rafael Nadal Photocall After French Open Victory

Some of the biggest names in tennis will be making a beeline for Paris in their quest for French Open glory later this month.

Unfortunate as it may be that Rafael Nadal has withdrawn, a few other players - most notably Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic - have a golden chance to take home the trophy. Daniil Medvedev has also thrown his hat into the ring after lifting the Italian Open last week.

The results of the recently concluded Italian Open caused a shakeup in the world rankings as well, with Alcaraz, Medvedev, and Djokovic now bringing up the top three. Medvedev is the biggest mover, gaining 1,000 ranking points and edging ahead of Djokovic. The Serb dropped to the third position after being unable to defend his Italian Open title.

ATP rankings directly affect seeding at a Slam, and the players will be seeded in the same order as their rankings. This means that Djokovic could face Alcaraz in the semifinals, potentially complicating his bid to win a record 23rd Major title.