Many of the world’s best players are back in action this week as they begin their hard court preparations ahead of the US Open, which starts at the end of this month. Andy Murray, Kei Nishikori, Marin Cilic and Richard Gasquet are the top four seeds at Rock Creek Park in Washington DC, with Murray competing at the event for the first time since 2006, when he reached the final as a 19-year-old.

Meanwhile, the final clay court tournament of the season takes place at the ski resort of Kitzbuhel in Austria, and all eyes will be on top seed and home favourite Dominic Thiem. The 21-year-old is in red hot form, having just secured back-to-back titles in Umag and Gstaad, and he will be favourite to continue his winning run in what is a relatively weak field.

Here’s a preview of both tournaments, plus some predictions.

Washington Open

The ATP…