ATP Picks: US Open

Flushing Meadow, Queens NY

The US Open is the fourth and final Grand Slam of the year and could decide whether Roger Federer might implausibly re-claim the number 1 spot at the end of the year. Federer has enjoyed a purple patch in recent months with Stefan Edberg in his corner, transforming his game into a more aggressive serve and volley style, which is helping preserve his body and take it to the base-liners.

The Federer Express: Back to his best?

4-time runner up Novak Djokovic is looking for only his 2nd US Open title and has had a rough patch since Wimbledon. Don’t expect him to wilt though. Andy Murray is returning to form and could be in the mix for the title. With Rafa out, Milos Raonic is also a good outside bet for the title with a 34-12 record this year.

Night matches tend to inspire, so expect a few upsets, long 5 setters and miracle shots under the lights.

Wildcards go to: Michael Llorda, Marcos Giron, Wayne Odesnik, Noah Rubin, Bernard Tomic, Ryan Harrison, Jared Donaldson and Tim Smyczek.

Let’s break it down:

ATP Level: Grand Slam

Surface: Outdoor Hard

Defending Champion: Rafael Nadal – Forced out with injury; a boon for the Big 3.

Nasty Floater: Jerzy ‘Poleaxe’ Janowicz – The former #14 is putting his game back together and could be a threat to Cilic or Anderson’s plans.

Up and Coming: Noah Rubin – The American 18 year old junior Wimbledon champion gets a wildcard.

Slumping: Tomas ‘Berdman’ Berdych – Since the French Open has not made it past a quarter final. Gets Lleyton Hewitt 1st round for the marquee match.

On Fire: Roger Federer – The Swiss Army Knife arrives off a big win in Cincinnati. No Nadal to worry about  – looking confident.

My pick: Novak Djokovic  – Despite patchy results, the Wimbledon champ rises to the occasion at the Slams. 

Did You Know? The completion of the retractable roof for Arthur Ashe Stadium is scheduled for August 2017.

Watch: Behind the scenes

Thanks for reading and check back in two weeks for more tips!