THE first tennis Grand Slam of 2011 is only a matter of hours away and I would be delighted if we are celebrating Andy Murray's first major victory on January 30.
Every season begins with the question “is this Murray's year?” and to be fair to the Scot he's trying to succeed in an era that boasts the two greatest players in tennis history.
World No.1 Rafael Nadal is always tough to beat but given that he's bidding to hold all four Slams at once he has even more incentive to capture his second title in Melbourne.
The Mallorcan's great rival and world No.2 Roger Federer is chasing a fifth Aussie Open crown and will also take some stopping.
R&R are unlikely to be sent crashing out in the early rounds and I am going to go with form and back the pair to be contesting the men's singles final at the end of the month (sorry Andy.)
A Nadal/Federer final is a best-priced 13-8 with Betfred and Paddy Power.To win his second Aussie crown Nadal is a tempting 9-5 with Paddy Power and Bodog while Paddy's are also offering 9-5 for Federer.
As I announced earlier if Murray is crowned champion it would be terrific for British tennis and would likely propel him to many Grand Slam successes.
However, to win in Melbourne he's likely going to have to beat R&R, playing the two best matches of his life in the process.
I won't rule it out altogether and therefore the Scot's price of 8-1 with Betfred, Blue Square, Paddy Power, 888sport and Bodog may be worth a small wager.
With each passing season tennis followers are of the opinion that Murray is getting closer to a Slam so with that in mind a large wager might be your choice.
The 23-year-old, who slipped to world No.5 after Robin Soderling won the Brisbane International last weekend, begins his campaign against Slovakian Karol Beck.
Journeyman Beck, five years Murray's senior, is ranked 101 and the Scot should have few problems advancing in straight sets.
Best price for Murray, although I wouldn't describe it as such, is 1-50 with William Hill while Beck is 25-1 with Skybet.
Take the Scot to advance in straight sets, the best price coming in the offer of three sets in the match at 2-7 with Boylesports.
Probably best to leave Murray until deep in the tournament when you will get a little more value for your money.
Australian Open best bet
- Nadal/Federer final, 13-8, Betfred and Paddy Power.
