By Chris Davies
May 23 2004

The first round draw starts on Monday with Justine Henin-Hardenne starting her campaign to defend the Roland Garros crown, but does have a tough opening match against Sanderine Testud (1) Justine Henin-Hardenne (BEL) v Sanderine Testud (FRA)

This match could be a entertaining match has Henin-Hardenne will be playing her first clay court match since Bausch and Lomb whereas Testud will be playing her first Roland Garros in 3 years. The Belgian will know what the French lady has to offer and knows that she could be facing a rather early exit from the Championships. The pair have met 5 times previously with the world number one holding a 3-2 advantage, but they have never played on clay. Obviously Justine will be rusty and probably a bit nervous has this experience is all new to her whereas Testud will shoot out of the blocks knowing that she is more than capable of winning this match. There will be no pressure on the home girl so free flowing play will be her natural action in the match.

Fans have to remember that the first round matches aren't sometimes the prettiest and players just want to get through the first hurdle safely. But Justine will have to be at her best and this will be a test of how she will be feeling both mentally and physically during and after the match.

The match I'm sure will be full of good rallies and quite a lot of power play from both sides and is definetly the pick of the first rounds. The match I think may go to a three set battle but I don't put all my faith on the Belgian storming through and maybe even she doesn't.

Winner - Henin-Hardenne in three sets if she's lucky.