Everything’s coming up (guns) and roses

Granslamtennis.online publisher and chief photographer Roger Parker continues his daily diary from courtside at Roland Garros …

Rafa Nadal is on his way to a record 13th title on the clay of Roland Garros.

He is running the serve clock to the limit with his antics in between most points towelling down at his basket amidst the flowers, actually Kalanchoe not Roses, whilst his hand maidens eagerly await to fulfil his ball delivery requirements.

Diego Schwartzman’s opening gambit was to dig in in the opening game which took all of 15 minutes to determine, with Rafa matching him blow for blow until the precious first kill was his.

Between Rafa and his record 13th title stands Novak Djokovic who seems to be back in favour with his fans following his shocking disqualification in last month’s US Open after carelessly swatting a ball into a line judge who tumbled to the ground, and was never seen again officiating at the event.

Those lucky enough to have one of the 1000 daily entrance tickets were treated to seven hours of high quality tennis. Masking up is de rigeur here in Paris …

… and Rafa’s player box included wife Xisca.

Djokovic’s box included his wife Jelena. And a bunch of the ball kids were upgraded to the presidential Box to watch the games today.

And yes, everything really is coming up (Guns) and Roses for Iga Swiatek who will take to the court for the Ladies Final with her headphones feeding her with her favourite band – Guns and Roses.

University Student Iga is actually on her gap year. Unlike most students who have to backpack their way around the world counting every dollar, Iga has enjoyed a luxury five star hotel experience at the Pullman hotel a stones throw, or a gentle lob from the Eiffel Tower and will go home with US$950,000 if she loses and US$1,800,000 if she can overturn the odds on favourite Sofia Kennin.