Tatjana Maria vs Elise Mertens Preview & Prediction | 2026 French Open | First Round

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Tatjana Maria looks to try and knock off seeded opposition in Belgium’s Elise Mertens.

Start date/time:

Venue: Roland Garros Stadium, Paris, France

Surface: Outdoor clay

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / USA – TNT Sports, TNT & truTV

How to watch online: UK – HBO Max / USA – HBO Max

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Tatjana Maria vs Elise Mertens ticket information

Tatjana Maria vs Elise Mertens prediction

Elise Mertens has gotten the better of Tatjana Maria in their two previous matches, but it’s worth noting that both of those contests were three-set affairs and this one could prove just as close. Mertens was knocked out in the first round of the French Open last year for the first time in her career, whilst Tatjana Maria has failed to reach the second round at Roland-Garros since 2017 having lost six consecutive first round matches since then.

With that in mind, Mertens is rightly installed as the clear favourite for this match. However, the Belgian has not been playing well lately and if Maria brings her best game, she stands a real chance of potentially springing a surprise. Expect a hard-fought duel and whilst Mertens has to be favoured, backing a three-setter looks a smart play.

Tatjana Maria vs Elise Mertens tip: Elise Mertens to win 2-1