Group A
Federer
Has played unfocused tennis since the US Open but we all know Federer can turn it on in an instant. Given the occasion, we can see him make the semis.
Murray
Hasn’t done much lately but he’s playing at home and he typically does well at events of this tier (aka, non-slam events). Murray, has taken a step back since tearing up the summer hard court season but the ATP’s resident “Tier one king” should make it out to the semis.
Del Potro
1st time slam winner has played with his head in the clouds since his tremendous win. He’s still nursing a post-slam-win hangover and the injury bug hasn’t been kind to him either. Delpo has retired in many of his matches post Us open. Says here, he’s ready to pack it in.
Verdasco
2009 was a career year for the lefty. He played lights out at the Oz and followed it up with some decent results throughout the year. Based on talent, he’s not in the same league as his other group mates, but will give them a tough match if they’re having an “off” day. (we’re looking at you Del Potro)
Group A Picks: Federer & Murray
Group B
Nadal
#2 hasn’t quite looked the same since his loss at Roland Garros and we’re not sure what it is. The game maybe intact but the intimidation aura is gone. He typically shows up tired at this event and this year is no exception. Uncle Toni tinkered with his serve last week and it didn’t work well. We wonder if he’ll revert back to his old grip. This tournament and Davis Cup duty next week will give him only one month to rest up and prepare for the Oz. Like Del Po, Nadal looks ready to pack it in.
Djokovic
The form player coming into this tournament, Djokovic has recaptured his game and has put together a great indoor season. He loves playing indoors on a fast hard court and it suits his game. Brimming with confidence, mark this pony into the semis and beyond.
Davydenko
Steady-nedy Russian plays well indoors and can give any one trouble. He has a real opportunity in this group to get through to the semis but alas, he is another victim of the talent-glass ceiling.
Soderling
His play has proved that he’s more than just an answer to a trivia question. The Swede has some serious game. Like Davydenko, he’s got a great opportunity to cap off a career season. We’ll take him over Davydenko to get through to the semis.
Group B Picks: Djokovic & Soderling