Photos: ATP's elite prepare for Monte Carlo Masters

Rafael Nadal is trying to win the Monte Carlo Masters for the ninth time in his career. (Julian Finney/Getty Images) The third ATP Masters 1000 tournament is

Rafael Nadal is trying to win the Monte Carlo Masters for the ninth time in his career. (Julian Finney/Getty Images)

The third ATP Masters 1000 tournament is already underway at the Monte Carlo Masters -- blink and you already missed Ernests Gulbis' first round loss to Alexandr Dolgopolov on Sunday.

The top names won't take the court until Tuesday afternoon when Novak Djokovic kicks off his title defense against No. 57 Albert Montanes, while Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer won't begin their tournaments until Wednesday.

That just means there's more time for practice before the first big clay tournament of the season. See how the ATP's top guys are preparing.

Novak Djokovic and Boris Becker: That's some intense coach face, Boris. The German rejoins Team Djokovic after skipping the North American swing, where Djokovic won two ATP Masters title. (Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Stanislas Wawrinka: Since starting the season undefeated and winning the Australian Open and Chennai Open, Wawrinka has played just two tournament and has not made it past the fourth round. (Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Monte Carlo fans: This is what you have to do to get a glimpse of... (Mitchell Gunn/Getty Images)

Roger Federer: This guy. Federer hasn't played the Monte Carlo Masters since 2011. He's made the final three times from 2006-2008 and lost to Nadal each time. (Mitchell Gunn/Getty Images)

Federer: The last time he took to the clay with his new Wilson frame it didn't go so well. I'm betting it's a much more positive week for him this time. (Mitchell Gunn/Getty Images)

Nadal: Pondering the meaning the life while warming up. (Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Federer: All smiles. (Mitchell Gunn/Getty Images)

Wawrinka