French Open 2012 Predictions: Rafael Nadal and Stars Who Will Dominate

The 2012 French Open is set to begin on Saturday, and the best players in the world are ready to square off. Everyone will take center stage at Roland Garros' clay courts on Sunday. With plenty on the line for all competitors, expect a hard-fought tournament.

Plenty of big names from the men's and women's divisions will take aim at dominating the clay court. Despite those who are favored, it won't be an easy road for anyone. However, a few players should dominate and make a great push towards being crowned champion. Here are four competitors who should do just that starting Sunday.

1. Novak Djovokic

Despite the singles loss to Rafael Nadal at the Rome Masters on Monday, Novak Djovokic is still a strong bet at Roland Garros. Djovokic is the winner of the last three Grand Slam titles—with all of them coming against Nadal.

If Djovokic can stay mentally focused against his competition, he may walk away from the French Open as champion. Since his grandfather's passing in April, he's been a bit unstable on the court. Djovokic needs to keep his mind on this tournament to give himself a chance.

2. Rafael Nadal

On the other side, it's pretty tough betting against Nadal right now. He's riding a high wave of momentum after beating Djovokic 7-5, 6-3 in the finals at Foro Italico.

Nadal's dominance on the clay courts will come into play in the French Open. Regardless of his bad history against Djovokic, he's always a strong choice on the clay. Look for Nadal to make a strong case at Roland Garros.

3. Serena Williams

Sure, Williams is coming off of a back injury and has only one French Open victory in her career. Can you really count her out of this competition, though?

With 27 Grand Slam titles in her epic career—including 13 in singles plus a hot streak of momentum before her injury—Williams should still make quite the impact. Serena has a legitimate shot of repeating 2002's history.

4. Victoria Azarenka

The women's division is stacked with competition and will aim to take down defending champion Li Na. Victoria Azarenka poses a great threat to do just that.

As the reigning 2012 Australian Open champion, Azarenka has a chance to stand alone as this year's champion. She won the mixed doubles championship with Bob Ryan in 2008 and is looking to add a singles' trophy to her resumé.