“I think the men’s is easy, isn’t it? Jannik Sinner…’: Indian tennis icon Sania Mirza predicts Roland Garros 2026 winner

Jannik Sinner of Italy (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) PUNE: Sania Mirza believes the women’s field at the French Open, which begins on Sunday, is an “open mix” while Jannik Sinner is the clear favorite among the men. Excerpts from the interaction…On her favorites to win the singles at Roland Garros this year:I guess it’s easy for men, right? Jannik Sinner has been in incredible form, also (Carlos) Alcaraz is not in the mix, so Sinner comes in as favourite.It’s actually an interesting mix for women. You usually see Iga Swiatek dominating the clay court season. After arriving at Roland Garros, she was quiet for the first few months. Sabalenka is not in the best shape. It’s honestly very open. I have a feeling that we will see a new champion on clay, outside of Sabalenka or Rybakina. It could be someone like Mirra Andreeva. He’s been knocking on the door for a while now.On Djokovic’s chances in the absence of Alcaraz:It definitely increases his chances. He doesn’t really lose that much to other people unless he’s injured. Novak is still a three, which is crazy considering he’s 38-39 years old. Novak is someone who has always proven physiology wrong, nature wrong and people wrong. I’m not saying this in any disrespectful way, but he’s a dark horse because he hasn’t won a Grand Slam in the last few years. I feel it comes with a chance.To players’ demands for more prize money:This is the second interview that has appeared. This happened when Roger (Federer) was still playing. And that’s why you’re seeing the increase in prize money that’s happened over the last few years.It’s no wonder it came back because it wasn’t fully resolved at the time. But this time it looks like they (the players) are a little more adamant about it. And if your top player who has won multiple Grand Slams in the last few years is talking about it, that’s a big deal. So it will be interesting to see where it goes. (Capture all the action from Roland Garros 2026 starting May 24 live on Sony Sports Network)