Muguruza can step things up in final prep event for Paris

Italian International
WTA: BT Sport 2, 10am Wednesday & ATP: Sky Sports 4, 11am Wednesday

Garbine Muguruza has been recommended outright for title joy in Rome this week but the Spaniard faces a tough opener against Jelena Ostapenko in the Italian International.

It was never going to be an easy curtain-raiser for Muguruza – Shelby Rogers, who Ostapenko beat 6-3 6-4 in their opener, could also have posed problems for the French Open champion.

But if Muguruza, who defeated Ostapenko 6-1 6-4 at the Foro Italico last year, is to prosper in the final main prep outing before her Roland Garros title defence, this is the type of match she should be winning.

The world number seven has not been in the best of form in recent weeks, but punters should expect to see Muguruza perform better in bigger tournaments.

Juan Martin del Potro is evens to see off Kyle Edmund in straight sets but may wish to sharpen up his fitness with a longer match.

Australian Open champion Roger Federer has announced he will miss Roland Garros and will concentrate on the grass season.

Recommendation
G Muguruza
1pt 8-11 Betway