When Rafael Nadal and Dominic Thiem clash on Sunday in the French Open final, the sentimental interpretation will have Nadal, 10 times the champion at Roland Garros and the undisputed "King of Clay," locking horns with his heir apparent.
It's a tempting narrative. Thiem is a terrific clay-court player. His game is heavy on forehand topspin and great backhand blasts from behind the baseline.