ATP Tour Match of the Week: Djokovic vs. Murray

Can anyone stop The Joker?  Not so far in 2011, and he has moved into the semi-finals of the Italian Open.

His opponent, Andy Murray.

Djokovic holds a 5-3 lifetime edge over Murray, and Murray hasn't beaten Djokovic since 2009.  The duo has met only once on clay, and that was back in 2008 in Monte Carlo.  Djokovic won that match.

I don't see Murray beating Djokovic on Saturday, but I see a competitive match.  Djokovic in 3 sets.

ATP Tour Match of the Week: Nadal vs. Murray

It will be a big day in Monte Carlo on Saturday as the Nadal/Murray rivalry is renewed.

The Spaniard holds the career edge 9-4, including winning both meetings on clay.  They played 4 times in 2010, each winning twice.

Nadal is having a much better 2011 than Murray and you have to like Rafa on clay.  This should be a two-setter with Nadal winning maybe 6-4, 6-4.

This will be a good test for Nadal, but he should pass it with flying colors.

2011 Australian Open Men's Singles Final Prediction

People talk about me, baby
Say I'm doin' you wrong, doin' you wrong
Well, don't you worry baby
Don't worry Cause I'm right here, right here, right here,
right here at home

--- The Joker by Steve Miller Band

Novak Djokovic vs. Andy Murray for all the marbles in Australia.

According to Steve Miller, The Joker was right here at home, well Novak Djokovic is playing so well he must feel at home in Australia.

These two are both 23, both about 6'3" and have been playing each other since they were 12.  Murray even divulged that he won their first ever meeting as 12 year olds 6-1, 6-0.

As pros, Novak hold the head to head lead at 4-3, but they haven't played since Key Biscayne in 2009.

This is their first meeting in a Grand Slam event. With his big win over Roger Federer, I don't think Djokovic is going to waste this opportunity.  Murray is hungry for Grand Slam success, but this isn't the time.

Look or Djokovic to come out and get an early break and that will propel him to a  set win.  He's playing too well. 

Prediction:  The Joker in 3.

Day 10: Australian Open Match of the Day

Murray vs. Dolgopolov

Alexandr DolgopolovAre you asking Dologopolov who?

Well, the better known Andy Murray might have his hands full with the upstart from the Ukraine that upset Robin Soderling in the previous round.

It's Austraila Day today in Australia and there isn't an Australian in the draw to be seen, but Murray and Dologopolov are two of the fan's favorites.

Look for a spirited match, a tough battle.  Murray will stick to his game, but who knows what the unorthodox Dolgopolov will do.  They've played once, in Davis Cup on clay.  Murray won it straights, but don't put any stock in that.

Prediction:  Murray in 4.

*Keep an eye on:  Bethanie Mattek-Sands and what wild ensemble she will pull out in her mixed doubles match today.  Her clothes draw a lot of attention.

Day 8: Australian Open Match of the Day

Andy Murray and Jurgen Melzer. 

This should be a classic lefty vs. righty matchup.  Murray has the advantage as he has taken all four meetings against the Austrian, Melzer.  They have played close matches though, remember back to the 2008 U.S. Open and the 5-setter they played.

Murray hasn't been tested to this point in Melbourne.  Melzer will give him that test.  Melzer's left-handed serve will keep Murray off-balance on the returns, and Melzer's aggressive play could give Murray fits.

Still, Murray appears in great shape and his mental state is also good. Look for Murray to pull this out in four tough sets, including a couple tie-breaks.

A good battle between these tough competitors.