RAFAEL NADAL can create history at the French Open today and, having backed the world No.2 pre-tournament, I remain confident he will land a record seventh Roland Garros crown.
World No.1 Novak Djokovic is bidding to create his own piece of history with a victory that would see him hold all four Grand Slams at the one time.
The 33rd career meeting between the two, their fourth Slam final in a row, has the makings of a classic so let's hope it lives up to our expectations.
Nadal, who boasts a stunning 51-1 record in Paris, is the 3-10 favourite with Bodog, Paddy Power, 888sport, Blue Square and Ladbrokes. Serbian ace Djokovic is 14-5 with sportingbet.
Spaniard Nadal hasn't dropped a set on his way to the final and although I don't believe he will win in straight sets today I wouldn't rule it out if he bags the opener (Nadal, 3-0, 31-20 Bodog).
Strong on their service games Nadal and Djokovic are sure to contest at least one tiebreak in the match (4-6, bet365).
Djokovic, of course, has been setting men's tennis alight in recent years and many will believe he will win today, however, getting the better of “The King of Clay” at the venue where he holds such an astonishing win-loss record will take some doing.
Also worth noting that Nadal defeated Djokovic in straight sets in their two clay meetings this year (Rome and Monte Carlo) and has won 11 out of their 13 clashes on the red dirt.
Recommendations
Nadal (3-10, Bodog, Paddy Power, 888sport, Blue Square, Ladbrokes)
Over 3.5 sets (4-7, bet365)
Tiebreak in final (4-6, bet365)
I also fancy nadal but dont u think djokovic is overpriced at around 11/4 and maybe worth a wee punt.
Ive backed ur tip for over 3.5 sets as cant see either player having it all their own way. Still undecided about backing djokovic, i do slightly favour nadal but dont think its as clear cut as odds suggest.
Joe, bookies are pricing it on Nadal’s French record. I can’t see past him on his favourite clay but would be surprised if he won in straight sets so over 3.5 sets looks good to me. Davie’s tipped Nadal from day one so I think it comes up for him.
Over 3.5 up. Took djokovic @ 17/4 when 3-0 down in 1st set. Sitting @ 6/4 now.
Joe, pretty sure over 3.5 would come up. Still hoping Nadal finishes off the job.
Paul how does the 3.5 work I’ve took it but yet to be paid out on bet365 cheers
Stephen. Hope you have been paid out by now but I believe bet365 usually wait until the match is completed before settling such bets. Well done on over 3.5. David