The 2012 Australian Open promises to be one of the most exciting events in Open Era tennisYou can watch and bet on the action from the Australian Open live for free at bet365 > live tennisWe’re currently in the middle of a golden era for professional tennis, with the competition in the men’s game as fierce as it has ever been, and the WTA Women’s Championships in a very healthy state. A quick look at the seeds list here in Melbourne suggests that all of the right ingredients are in place for an exhilarating Australian Open.
Novak Djokovic will be back to defend his crown after a breathtaking 2011 season. He’ll be joined by the supremely talented trio of Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray as the main contenders for the title. Nadal will be vying to reinvigorate a charge back to the top of the rankings, whilst Murray, backed by new coach Ivan Lendl, is eyeing up a maiden slam title. Federer is attempting to recuperate following a back injury, but shouldn’t be written off. The Swiss legend was in inspired form at the end of last year.
Outside of the top four, the competition remains fierce. Former runner-up Jo-Wilfried Tsonga could be a massive threat, as could David Ferrer, Tomas Berdych or Mardy Fish. With his ferocious serve, 2011 breakthrough act Milos Raonic could also figure in the latter stages as a major presence.
The women’s draw should also provide plenty of hours of high-quality viewing. Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters and Maria Sharapova all seem likely to recover fully from injury in time for the main draw. These three experienced competitors are all in with a real chance here.
The WTA possesses a great deal of young talent also, with Caroline Wozniacki and Victoria Azarenka both aiming to secure a maiden slam title. Throw Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova into the mix, and what you’ve got is one of the best slam line-ups of recent years.
We can expect Na Li, Agnieszka Radwanska, Andrea Petkovic and Aussie favourite Samantha Stosur to make a big effort too. In the right kind of form, any of these competitors could lift the title.
