Two-time French Open championCarlos Alcarazis out of the Roland Garros due to a wrist injury. Alcaraz was the strongest contender to defend his title, but his absence paves the way for others to win. Without Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner becomes the hot favourite to win the title. But Sinner will be under pressure because of expectations. He is chasing a career Grand Slam, and all the spotlight will be on him as everyone expects him to sweep clay titles this year. But that expectation can backfire sometimes, so we'll look at three players other thanJannik Sinnerwho can win the French Open 2026.

Alexander Zverev is yet to win a Grand Slam.

He has barely competed against the World No.1, so getting over Sinner remains a challenge. Clay is probably the best surface for Zverev to end the losing streak against Sinner. He has won nine titles on the surface and has a win-loss record of 175-64. The surface allows Zverev more breathing space against Sinner, who likes to suffocate players with his speed. If Zverev has a good day and Sinner is slightly off, he may have a good chance of beating Sinner and winning his maiden Slam.

Italy's Lorenzo Musetti celebrates as he won the quarterfinal match of the French Tennis Open against Frances Tiafoe of the U.S. at the Roland-Garros stadium in Paris. AP/PTI

However, he needs to maintain the intensity throughout the tournament, and his fitness must stay intact. Like every other player, he'll have to pass the Jannik Sinner test. Musetti hasn't played a lot of Sinner. He has faced him three times and lost all. The last time he played Sinner on clay was in 2023, and he has certainly got better with time.

Novak Djokovic will hunt for his fourth French Open title

However, he broke the hurdle during the Australian Open 2026, where he defeated Jannik Sinner to reach the final, but lost to Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard is out, and Sinner remains his biggest challenge. But the win over Sinner at the Australian Open was a big confidence booster and will help him during the French Open. But fitness will be a concern. Grand Slams are brutal, and at 38, staying in peak fitness will be a big test for the veteran, especially in the semifinal and final.

Faham Uddin is a seasoned sports journalist currently working as a Special Correspondent on the sports desk. With over eight years of diverse experien...View More

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