Seven time French Open champion Nadal can overtake his countryman and fourth ranked David Ferrer of Spain with a good result at Madrid combined with an early loss from Ferrer. Nadal lost last year at Madrid in the third round to Fernando Verdasco also of Spain.

Should Nadal be unable to rise from five to four in the ATP Tour rankings after Rome ATP tournament next week, the French Open would then seed him fifth; which would mean Nadal could meet the top ranked Novak Djokovic of Serbia, the second ranked Roger Federer of Switzerland or the third ranked Andy Murray of the Britain all as early as the quarterfinals.

Since Williams won the Madrid tournament last year, Sharapova will pass Williams in the WTA Tour rankings next week after Madrid if the Russian can post a better result than her American colleague. For example if Williams reaches the Madrid final, Sharapova would then need to beat Williams in the final. Seeded one and two at Madrid, the two players could only meet in the final.

Williams won her first round Madrid match Sunday in straight sets. Sharapova plays her first round match Monday while Nadal is scheduled to open later in the week.