Roger Federer

The incomparable Roger Federer remains World Number One a position he has held since early February 2004. He stands supreme as one of the greatest ever players to have graced the game and although the competition for his position becomes stronger, the harder it seems Federer gets. He is well established in the Australian Open Roll of Honour as he is at other Grand Slam Tournaments. It is true that Rafael Nadal has the drop on him on clay, but on any other surface, Federer usually ends up on top. That said he lost his Australian Open crown last year, losing in the semi final to eventual winner and current world number three, Novak Djokovic. Federer has said that he will be all out to regain it this year. He has won this title on three occasions in 2004, 2006 and 2007, he was also semi-finalist in 2005 as well as last year. Add that to his incredible performances in other Grand Slams, five Wimbledon’s in succession between 2003 and 2007 and four US Opens between 2004 and 2007 he is the man they fear most and will be favourite in the tennis betting to win the Tournament again this year.

Federer has a stylish, versatile, all-court playing method and can hit all of the basic shots with a high degree of accuracy. He is a superb volleyer and an excellent baseliner who can dictate play with precise groundstrokes from both wings. He uses an extreme eastern grip, which places the hand between eastern and semi-western for his forehand and finishes with his right arm around the shoulder, and he keeps his eyes on the moment of impact longer than others. He also can generate extreme top-spin with the forehand shot, allowing him to open up cross-court angles while still hitting the ball with pace. His service is up there with the best in the game and this is pointed out when he made favourite in most tennis betting odds.