Top 5 Photos 9/24: Nadal takes over Philippe-Chatrier

More champions were out on the practice courts in Paris making their final preparations, while the qualifying rounds are just about wrapped up.

These are the Top 5 Photos from Thursday at Roland Garros.

1

Rafael Nadal

"Happy to be here," Nadal wrote on Instagram. The Spaniard had his first practice underneath the newly added roof on Court Philippe-Chatrier. As the No. 2 seed, he has a pretty solid draw though an unseeded Kei Nishikori could give him a tricky time in the third round.

Nicolas Gouhier/FFT

2

Carole Monnet

The 18-year-old wasn't able to get past her second-round qualifying match against Giulia Gatto-Monticone. Although the Frenchwoman won't be competing in this year's main event, she showed off some serious hops during the three-set battle against the Italian.

Corinne Dubreuil / FFT

3

Dominic Thiem

This year's US Open champion made his practice debut on the red clay in Paris. The Austrian has been dealt a tough draw as he will begin his campaign against Marin Cilic, with Felix Auger-Aliassime, Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka all in his quarter.

Julien Crosnier/FFT

4

Venus Williams

The seven-time major champion was all smiles in her hitting session on Wednesday. Venus apparently hasn't played Victoria Azarenka enough these past couple months. The 40-year-old could possibly meet Azarenka in the second round of Roland Garros.

Julien Crosnier/FFT

5

Sara Errani

Eight years ago, the 33-year-old was competing in the Roland Garros final. It's a little odd to see her vying for a spot in the main draw after her tremendous success on the Parisian clay, but Errani will face Tereza Martincova in the final round of qualifying on Friday.

Corinne Dubreuil / FFT