Serena Williams and Andy Murray named on French Open entry list

Murray, who has not featured in competition since Wimbledon of last year, has been working his way back from hip surgery and had been tipped for a return to action at Queen’s Club in June. But the Brit’s presence on the start list suggests his fitness is ahead of schedule.

The 30-year-old has made at least the semi-finals in each of the last four years at the French Open.

Williams has been easing her way back into the game following the birth of her daughter Alexis Olympia, and it was thought she may opt out of the clay court season. But the American has been named on the entry list for the French Open, meaning she could equal Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles.

Williams has won three titles at Roland Garros in her career.

The French Open runs from 27 May to 10 June, where in the men's tournament Rafa Nadal will be defending his 2017 title and aiming for a remarkable 11th title.