Friday 8 January 2010

Top Gun?

Could this be the number one tennis player on the planet? And the least charismatic?

Nikolay Davydenko ended 2009 by defeating Nadal, Federer and finally Del Potro in the London end-of-season championship. He seems to have brought the same form into 2010. Today's match against Federer in Doha was won by the better all-round player, and it wasn't Roger. One of Federer's great strengths has been to create a barrier of invincibility against opponents he has continually beaten in the past. Davydenko had a 0-12 record against the world number one until London, but now seems to have the upper hand.

It certainly helps to you have can go through a set with a 100% first serve record. I captured this screenshot at the end of the first set. Add this to a dogged determination and great speed around the court, and you have a formidable package.

So tomorrow Davydenko will take on Nadal in the Doha final. Rafa's form has certainly improved, but I think the value is with the Russian at 2.24. I don't see him as a potential future multi-slam winner, but at this moment in time, he's right at the top of his game.

1 comment:

  1. Agree with you on the value. Rafa had a good couple of weeks but who has he actually beaten of note? Soderling? He over performed last year and will probably come crashing back down this year?

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