Murray’s French withdrawal gives rest Wimbledon boost
Published:Andy Murray’s withdrawal from this year’s French Open will have little impact at the top of the betting at Roland Garros, with the Scotsman’s clay court capabilities not at the same level as the games’ top operators on the surface.
However, the back injury that has hampered the start of the British number one’s summer may also have an effect on his Wimbledon campaign.
The 26-year-old has long had his eyes set on winning his home slam but this set back could be a major blow to his chances of achieving that in 2013.
The injury is one that Murray has been battling for 18 months and it is feared that despite opting to rest instead of competing in Paris, the 2/1 shot may not recover fully in time be in prime condition at SW19.
That will be music to the ears of the other men at the top of the tennis game.
Novak Djokovic is the 2/1 favourite to claim a second Wimbledon crown, and with Murray out of the way the route looks clear for the Serbian.
Rafa Nadal is still on the comeback trail and despite strong showings in his clay court appearances, the pace of the grass in south London is sure to put his fitness to the test, and he may well be found wanting.
To totally dismiss the Spaniard would be brash; he already has two titles to his name and thrives when under pressure, making him a tempting proposition at 3/1.
Roger Federer perhaps offers better value here though at 4/1 to retain the trophy he won for the seventh time in 2012.
The Swiss star was written off last year but still emerged the champion after disposing of both Murray and Djokovic.
No one is more at home on centre court, but there are always worries his age may prove a hindrance against the mobility of Djokovic and Nadal.
World number one Djokovic already has one slam under his belt this season and it may be the injuries and ageing bones of his opponents that hand him another.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publication
