Murray a strong prospect for more Australian success

With the retention of his Brisbane International title secured, Andy Murray finds himself 11//4 second-favourite to claim this year’s Australian Open title.

Murray has reached the final of this Grand Slam tournament for two of the past three years, with his semi-final exit at the hands of Novak Djokovic a major disappointment in 2012.

He did go on to win two of his three finals last year, claiming Olympic gold in addition to his first Grand Slam title, proving he is finally beginning to realise his immense potential.

And further Brisbane International success would seem to suggest that Murray is ready to carry his sparkling form of last year into this campaign.

The 25-year-old disposed of highly-rated Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets in Sunday’s final, a seemingly ideal preparation for his tilt at the upcoming Aus Open.

Indeed, the unerring manner with which Murray bested his opponent en route to his 25th career title certainly bodes well for the upcoming Grand Slam competition.

And Murray is sure to prove a popular bet with punters, after finally proving he has the mettle to actually win major tournaments.

He is second in the betting only to 11/10 reigning champion Novak Djokovic, a three-time winner in Melbourne.

Djokovic it was who conquered Murray in the 2011 final, though the Brit has offered a sterner resistance against the ruthless Serb in their most recent encounters.

Therefore, patriotic punters will take on Djokovic with confidence, particularly in light of Murray’s US Open final triumph over the defending Aus Open champion.

Amongst the most notable other players in the tournament meanwhile, it is no surprise to see Roger Federer next in the betting after Murray, as a 4/1 hope.

Again though, Murray’s recent Olympic final victory over the Swiss star makes the Glaswegian look a far more tempting prospect to prosper in Australia.

With the ideal preparation completed, in-form Murray looks superb value at 11/4 to kick off the year with his second Grand Slam success.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.