ATP Picks: Miami

Sony Open Tennis

There are enough story lines going on this week in Miami to make Don Johnson proud.

Andy Murray announced he’s parting company with Ivan Lendl, on whose watch took Andy to new Grand Slam heights. Lendl’s desire to play more tennis himself, seems to have prompted the amicable split.

A rejuvenated Djokovic looks to complete the Indian Wells / Miami double for the second time in his career to join Federer as the only man to have done this. Federer himself is coming off a good run of form with 1 title and 1 final and new ranking of number 5. Some of the young-bloods look dangerous including Raonic, Dolgopolov, Dimitrov and Gulbis. Nadal - incredibly – has never won in Miami, so he will be fired up not just to make good on his 2nd round exit in Indian Wells.

American interest is spearheaded by new world number 10 John Isner with the usual gang of wildcards and nearly-rans behind him. Time for Sam Querry to stand up and be counted.

Sony Open Tennis

Let’s break it down:

ATP Level: 1000

Surface: Outdoor Hard

Defending Champion: Andy Murray – Coach-less but ready to defend in his beloved 2nd home. He’s 14-5 match wins this year.

Floater: Lleyton Hewitt – Needs one more win to reach 600 career wins. Will get Nadal 2nd round if he wins.

Youngblood: Karen Khakanov – Wildcard Russian 17 year old stands 6’6″ looking for his first main tour win.

Slumping: Jo Tsonga – Comes in on a 9-5 match wins record, which is poor for him.

On Fire: Alex Dolgopolov – A breakthrough win against Nadal in IW and semi-final has given The Dog much to chew on.

My pick: Novak Djokovic – The draw is kind until potentially Murray and with his IW win, should have the confidence to do the double.

Did You Know?: Rafael Nadal looks to get his hands on the elusive Sony Open Tennis crown on his 10th visit to Miami.

Watch: Miami UncoveredThanks for reading and check back next week for more.