Australian Open Men’s Singles Final
Rafael Nadal vs Roger Federer
Tennis fans and online gambling pundits hoped for this matchup, but they surely didn’t see it coming in the first Grand Slam of 2017.
Although Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s chances to reunite in the Australian Open got brighter with the early dismissal of Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic, the presence of Stan Wawrinka and Milos Raonic didn’t increase their betting odds on betting websites.
However, the two stars proved that their best days are not yet behind them as they overcame all the hurdles to add another chapter to what many believe as the greatest rivalry in the game’s history.
Hence, when they meet at the hard surface of Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne on Sunday, fans can expect an instant tennis classic.
Both players will be coming from a gruelling five-set match in the semi-finals, but Federer will have more time to recover with his match against Wawrinka finishing a day earlier. Thus, with fresher legs, the 35-year-old can bring the game to the net and challenge Nadal’s weakened stamina.
Nevertheless, the Spaniard will rely on his proven record against the Swiss for some boost of confidence. Though he lost their latest match at Basel in 2015, Nadal still holds a 23-11 advantage over his rival in their head-to-head encounters. Not to mention that he never lost in the Australian Open where he faced Federer.
His win over Grigor Dimitrov—who is often compared to Federer for his style of play—should have also prepared him well for this battle. The so-called Baby Fed had trouble penetrating the court, so the Maestro will likely face the same problem with Rafa remaining formidable on the baseline.
Federer has his shot-making and fluid style, but Nadal has his fearsome forehand that could disrupt his opponent’s rhythm.
I believe this game will end to a four- or five-set thriller that could go down as one of their best matches, just like their meeting in Rolland Garros almost six years ago. Nonetheless, with a clear advantage, Nadal should be able to beat an Asian Handicap -1.50 for 2.51 and establish his dominance over Federer for his 15th grand slam title.
For the latest sports update, promotions and betting picks with SBOBET get social with our official Twitter, Google+, YouTube and Facebook accounts. Visit SBOBET and join us now. Start placing your bets today!
Click for more tennis betting options.
Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
