A close look at three highly-anticipated quarter-finals to be played on Tuesday.
2018 finalist Stephens proved her title credentials with a 6-4, 6-3 passage past 2016 champion Garbine Muguruza in her last match. Renowned coach Sven Groeneveld has helped the American rediscover her clay-court groove.
However, the former US Open winner will now face a rejuvenated Konta. The Brit has defeated her twice this year, significantly on the clay in Rome a fortnight ago.
> ORDER OF PLAY: DAY 10 (4 JUNE)
It’s a maiden quarter-final for Konta in Paris, who had previously never progressed beyond the first round in four attempts. Hitting with a sense of freedom, Konta has the versatility to disrupt the Stephens rhythm.
Two of the standout performers from Roland-Garros collide.
Teenager Vondrousova has utilised her extensive variety and abundance of power to soar through the draw, dispatching clay specialist Carla Suarez Navarro in straight sets, before dismantling 12th seed Anastasija Sevastova 6-2, 6-0 in the fourth round.
Martic started to cause waves by dismissing local charge Kristina Mladenovic and then No.2 seed Karolina Pliskova to reach the second week. Having battled back from a set down facing Kaia Kanepi, the Croatian is into a maiden major quarter-final.
The world No.31 has clinched victory in all four encounters with Vondrousova, including a 1-6, 6-4, 6-1 triumph on clay in the Istanbul Cup final.
"I know her pretty well," Martic said with a smile. "I think she's a great player, great person. I'm really looking forward to this match. I think it's going to be a fun one. She's also got a few tricks in her game, but I like that!"
Defending champion Nadal is looking in fine fettle, only dropping a single set facing David Goffin en route to the last eight.
A 10-2 record lead against Nishikori sends the Spaniard onto court as the heavy favourite, which is enhanced by 4-0 in duels on clay.
Nishikori will have to bring his absolute best with short, sharp points, having hauled himself through consecutive energy-zapping five-set rollercoasters against Laslo Djere and Benoit Paire.
Can Nishikori conjure up some magic to catch Nadal off guard?
ROLAND-GARROS
20 May - 9 June 2024
