The 2015 Madrid Open starts on Saturday. But world number one, Novak Djokovic, won’t be competing due after he pulled out for a second consecutive year, citing he seeks a period of rest ahead of the Rome Masters and the French Open later this month.
That gives the rest of the men’s field a hope of finally grabbing a title in 2015, a year in which the Serbian has totally dominated so far – breaking records to become the first player to win the first three ATP titles of the season, as well as the Australian Open in January.
Meanwhile, in WTA, can Serena Williams maintain her unbeaten start to 2015?
ATP Preview
Despite Djokovic’s current domination of the men’s game, clay belongs to Rafael Nadal. And it is unsurprising to find that the Spaniard has won the last two tournaments here in his homeland – along with victories in 2005 and 2010 – making him the 7/5 favourite (888sport) to triumph here once more.
The Spaniard is still well off peak form though and there will be a host of challengers ready to put the pressure on him for the title.
Kei Nishikori, last year’s finalist who was forced to retire in the third set, will be eager to show he is ready to break the ‘big four’, and is available at just 3/1 (888sport).
Then, of course, there is the small matter of Roger Federer (4/1 at 888sport) and the newly-married Andy Murray, who is remarkable value at 20/1 (888sport) to win the tournament. Admittedly the Scot has been off the pace in recent months, but 20/1 is simply stunning value for the 2008 winner and certainly worth a few quid each-way – especially considering Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are on the other half of the draw.
Best Bet: Andy Murray e/w – 20/1 at 888sport
WTA Preview
Serena Williams (5/2 at 888sport), the only female player to win here more than once, has a favourable draw, with her greatest rivals up to the semi-finals likely to come in the form of Anna Ivanovic, and then either Petra Kvitova (20/1) or Eugenie Bouchard (40/1 UniBet).
Things are certainly harder to call on the other side of the draw, with Caroline Wozniacki (20/1 888sport), last year’s winner Maria Sharapova (13/2 BetVictor) and Simona Halep (5/1 bet365) all battling it out for the other final place.
Best Bet: Serena Willliams outright – 5/2 at bet365
