The leading trio of Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray all have work to do before the start of the French Open in a fortnight, with the Rome Masters the last tournament chance to whip their clay games into top condition.

Of the three leading seeds at the event, which begins on Sunday at the picturesque Foro Italico, only number three Murray lasted until the quarterfinals in Madrid last week.

Defending champion Federer was ambushed in the third round by Japan's Kei Nishikori, while Djokovic, the world's top player, exited a round earlier at the hands of Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov.