DOB:06.07.1977 Nationality:Belarussian World Ranking:29 Previous French Open results: 2001 ::first round 2000 ::first round 1999 ::second round 1998 ::n/a

Mirnyi has a powerful serve-volley game which can trouble the very best, as he proved in Hamburg where he beat Pete Sampras and Carlos Moya.

Nicknamed 'The Beast' for his imposing 6 ft 5 in frame and aggressive style, Mirnyi also possesses a stubborn streak on court.

He is an excellent doubles player and his singles game gets better all the time.

But he may have to wait to make an impression at Roland Garros.