Fast 4 Tennis: Was it a Success?

Whilst viewers of Channel Nines: "One night with Federer and Hewitt", slammed the coverage as frustrating, due to strange camera angles and breaks in audio, I'm going to put all of that aside. Instead, I am going to concentrate on accessing the "Fast 4 Tennis" concept and how it faired on Monday night.

It seems that Fast 4 Tennis is another way for sporting organisers to appease our ever increasingly short attention span. We have shortened forms of Rugby and Cricket, so why not tennis?

The problem with Fast 4 Tennis is that it doesn't actually change the way that the sport is played. In Rugby's shortened version Rugby Sevens, there are less players on the field, thus creating a more open, fast-paced match with a lot of more tries. In cricket's shortened form, 20-20 cricket, the game is changed by the limited over format forcing players to go for bigger and more exciting shots because they have less time to make a big score.

Fast 4 Tennis is still just tennis...the only difference is that the sets were over quicker.

My second problem with shortening the game of tennis is that there already is a shorter version of the game, it's called a best of three set match. Hewitt and Federer's five-set match went for about an hour and a half,  which not surprisingly, is about how long standard best of three-set match will last. Therefore, it defeated the purpose of having a faster paced style of the game.

Roger Federer and Lleyton Hewitt - Source: Zimbio

 

There are a couple of other differences in Fast 4 Tennis to the regular tennis match. There is the first to five-point tiebreaker, no ads scoring and lets are in play. I'm may be starting to sounds like a negative neddy, however I'm not a fan of the first two concepts so I'll concentrate on the latter. I really like the idea of lets being in play, they're in play during the rally, so why not during the serve as well? I think lets hold up the flow of the game and I think all formats of tennis should adopt this rule

The thing that made "One night with Federer and Hewitt" so great was the players. Roger Federer and Lleyton Hewitt are undoubtedly amazing entertainers, but they also have great chemistry together whenever they play. The other thing that made the tennis so entertaining is the fact that it was an exhibition, I want to highlight that point. There is no way Federer and Hewitt would be playing the same style of tennis in the fourth round of the Australian Open with everything on the line.

They both played without inhibitions, they played with style and flair but it wasn't the format that encouraged this play.

 

"Fast 4 Tennis is still just tennis..."

One night with Federer and Hewitt can be considered a success, the ratings were good and it certainly was entertaining. I put this down to the players on court and not the format, Fast 4 Tennis seemed pointless and unoriginal. No advantage scoring and lets in play are not exactly new or revolutionary ideas, they have been around for a long time.

If organisers really want to increase the pace of tennis, and shorten the game, than the rule changes will need to be a lot more inspired then Fast 4 Tennis.

So in homage to "That Movie Guy" Marc Fennell, I give Fast 4 Tennis 2 out of 5 awkward camera angles.

Teenagers to watch in 2015... Belinda Bencic

Is there finally a new Swiss miss?

Fifteen years ago, if someone had said that teenagers would be all but extinct from the top of the women's game, many would have thought they were crazy. But the current climate of the WTA is just that, a physical and demanding sport that just isn't made for girls still developing their games.

Enter Belinda Bencic, such is the talent of the young Swiss, she has been able to create a name for herself at just seventeen years of age. In a world where tennis is dominated by strong, athletic women in their late 20s, the youngster has shone through with fine finesse and free flowing ability. With a singles ranking of 32, Bencic will be seeded at Grand Slam events in 2015 which should provide a platform to bigger and better things.

During her stellar run at the US Open. Source: Zimbio

You wouldn't say that Swiss tennis is the strongest in the world, but they do make a strong case. With Federer and Wawrinka at the top of the world in the men's game, they need a female champion to complete the set. Gone are the days where Martina Hingis was the Swiss Miss and dominated the women's game with her immense skill and picked apart her opponents like a precise operation, however the tiny European may have found a new women's champion.

"I'm willing to call it, Belinda Bencic will be winning grand slams..."

Belinda Bencic seems ready to take over the mantle as the new Swiss Miss and has the game to back it up.  She has already conquered the junior world, becoming the world number 1 junior in 2013 along with two junior grand slams (Roland Garros and Wimbledon). Her transition to the senior game has been most impressive, so smooth it was that it caught most people off guard.

Her 2014 highlights included a stellar run at the Premier clay event in Charleston where she reached the semi finals. She also made her first appearance in a WTA final at the International event in Tianjin. Perhaps her finest effort though was her breakthrough on the big stage at the US Open where she reached the quarter final. Bencic announced herself to the world with wins over the likes of Angelique Kerber and Jelena Jankovic.

Winning the Roland Garros girls title. Source: Zimbio

Bencic has an all round game, her technique is sound off both wings. She takes the ball early to create more power but also understands the importance of playing the percentages, much like Hingis did in her wonder years. The young Swiss is fast, her movement and defence win her a lot of matches and can frustrate the best of players. Don't take Bencic for just another retriever though, she can create her own pace and put the ball away for a winner if she needs to.

Going forward, I'd like to see Belinda create a big weapon in her game, a weapon that her opponents will be scared to hit to. Right now, she beats opponents with consistent pressure, she can run down every ball but if they drop it short she will also put it away. Her game will develop in the coming years, she's playing in the most physical generation of women's tennis so it will take time.

Perhaps more importantly than anything, she has the belief. She knows that she belongs at the top of the game, this will take her a long way. It's always interesting to see how young player back up after their breakout year, it'll really be a testament to Bencic if she can keep kicking on as most teenagers will have a let down after an amazing season. 

I'm willing to call it, Belinda Bencic will be winning grand slams in 2-3 years time.

 

Teenagers to watch in 2015... Alexander Zverev

There's a new kid on the block

Mischa Zverev's little brother Alexander stepped out of his older brothers shadow and into the spotlight at the start of this year. At the 2014 Australian Open boys singles tournament, the then sixteen year-old German slaughtered American Stefan Kozlov 6-3, 6-0 to win the title.

"I have no doubt that he can reach the top of the tennis temple"

 

The Australian Open Boys title was just the beginning for Zverev, 2014 proved to be a break-out year for the young star.

Genetically blessed, Zverev stands at 6 foot. 6 and makes the most of his height with a booming serve. His serve is not one-dimensional however, he can hit all corners of the service box from the same ball toss. It's hard to read and is giving all of his opponents plenty of trouble.

Winning the Australian Open Boys Title - Source: Zimbio

At the start of July, Zverev took a few more big steps with his gangly frame to win his first title on the Challenger tour. Beating three top-100 players in the process, he became the youngest player to win on the circuit since Bernard Tomic in 2009. Looking right at home on the red-dirt, the German overcame Paul-Henri Mathieu in three sets.

Continuing to impress on the clay, Alexander won his first ATP tour match in Hamburg. Zverev proved tough to beat that tournament, winning his way to the semi finals to face Spaniard David Ferrer. While the match against Ferrer proved that Zverev wasn't quite ready to take down the very best, the world certainly stood up and took notice of the feisty young German.

His long levers create awesome top-spin off both sides, along with pin-point accuracy, Zverev will be a force on all surfaces. With so much upside and potential, all eyes are on Alexander to see what he can do in 2015. Moving forward, Zverev will have to keep his hot head under control. All of the top players can keep calm in moments of trepidation, if Zverev can develop this same skills I have no doubt that he can reach the top of the tennis temple.

At home on clay - Source: Zimbio

Already reaching the pinnacle of the junior ranks in 2013, Zverev turned his attention to the senior tour in 2014. He should be aiming to be a regular main stay inside the top 100 in 2015. He'll start the Australian summer in qualifying, but I think he is ready to start winning main draw matches at the grand slams.

The German is already quite well known to the tennis fraternity, but I think 2015 will be the year when the wider public will learn the name... Alexander Zverev.

US Open: Men's Singles Preview

              Who will rise in Rafa's absence?


The world number one ranking has recently fallen back into the lap of Novak Djokovic, cemented by his win at Wimbledon. His return to the top is enough to give the Serb favouritism at this years US Open, but with a few early losses at the lead up tournaments, it's anything but a sure thing.

The positives...Novak's biggest rival, Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the tournament, giving Djokovic a clearer path to the title.

Another positive, Novak has always performed well in New York. He has reached the final the last four years in a row (only winning one title however).

... Alas, there are speed bumps ahead.

Novak Djokovic - Source: Zimbio
 

The in form player heading into this years tournament will be none other than Roger Federer himself. His win in Cincinnati was classic Roger; confident, artistic and innovative.

The Swiss master came close at Wimbledon. But it makes me wonder if his body can keep holding up over five-sets against players like Djokovic. Federer can outplay Djokovic for sets on end but the Serb's ability to stay in matches and out-last opponents will be tough to beat.

"His win in Cincinnati was classic Roger; confident, artistic and innovative"

Andy Murray is a brilliant hard-court player. Whilst his form hasn't been great lately, he is a two-time grand slam champion and this counts for a lot. Not only that, the Brit knows how to win at Flushing Meadows.

It'll all be about motivation for Murray, when he is into matches and focused, not a lot of men can stand in his way. He does have a tendency to lose concentration, get down on life and lose his way. Which Andy Murray will turn up in New York?

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga blew the competition away in Toronto, it was snap shot of what the flashy Frenchman can really do. Consistency is the key, and at 29-years old, Tsonga is running out of time. I would have to say that he isn't stable enough over five-sets and seven matches.

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga - Source: Zimbio

Stan Wawrinka has failed to live up to the hype after his title win at the Australian Open, however he is returning to hard-courts here and this could reignite the magic. I won't be betting on it though.

Other contenders include; David Ferrer, the underpowered Spaniard doesn't match up well to the top players. Milos Raonic is due for a breakthrough soon, but is just too raw at the moment. Look for Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov is impress again in New York, the talented mini-Federer needs some more years in the legs to really challenge for the top though.

While Djokovic and Federer will go in as joint favourite; Djokovic's fitness and consistency will get him over the line.

US Open: Women's Singles Preview

               Can you really look past Serena Williams?



She's arguably the greatest of all time, she's arguably the most intimidating female athlete on the planet and she will be more determined than ever at Flushing Meadows to win her eighteenth grand slam title.

Serena Williams always finds another gear at the US Open, she loves performing well in front a boisterous New York crowd. The American is having a sub-par year compared to her lofty heights but the evidence does not lie, with her five past appearances at the US Open resulting in three wins, a final and a semi-final.

 

"She's arguably the most

intimidating female athlete on the planet"

 

She's also hitting form at the right time, winning two titles to clinch the US Open series (rewarding the best player throughout the warm-up events with extra cash if they win the US Open).

For new world number-two Simona Halep, this year is all about breakthroughs...her highest WTA ranking, her first grand slam final. She's athletic, she's quick and she has the right temperament to win a grand slam.

She has all the skills, but does she have the raw power necessary to break through the grand slam wall?

My guess is that at the US Open, no. It will take a special player to beat the little Romanian, she will go deep.




Simona Halep - Source: Getty Image

It's been an odd year for the now five-time grand slam champion Maria Sharapova, she's become a clay-court specialist in many ways, a far cry from her younger days when attempts on the dirt were nothing but awkward.

Sharapova sits on top of the singles race for the year largely due to her wins at Roland Garros and Madrid and I think she'll give Serena a real shake in New York. She has the raw power to trouble anyone.

Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova and finalist Eugenie Bouchard have both struggled since the title decider in Britain. I don't expect either of them to feature in the US decider. It's a lack of consistency that will plague both youngsters here.

Petra Kvitova - Source: Zimbio

One player that has no problem with consistency is Agnieszka Radwanska, one of the most skilful female players we've ever seen.

The Pole will need the bigger, more powerful girls to falter in order to win.

Other contenders we have include Venus Williams, playing better this season, but perhaps not well enough to string seven wins together in tough conditions. Ana Ivanovic can beat anyone at her best, but will struggle with consistency. Victoria Azarenka has always been one of Serena's biggest rivals, but the Belarussian is still coming back from injury and will need some more time to be at her best.

All eyes are of Serena Williams... again.

Roland Garros: Men's Preview

Is Nadal no longer invincible?

It has been a forgettable clay court season for the "King of clay". Not a bad run by any means, the Spaniard won the title in Madrid and reached the final in Rome. However, the once invincible clay-courter has shown some chinks in the armour.

In saying that, Nadal has shown to be almost impossible to beat over five-sets at Roland Garros. He has only lost one time to a rampaging Swede, Robin Soderling. Nadal is the most physical player we have ever seen, his immense top spin wears players out over time. It's consistent pressure that builds up over five-sets that sees his opponents implode almost every single time.

 While the 2014 clay court season has been under par for Nadal so far, he will be there during the final few days of the French Open and we know that to be beaten, players will need to play out of their skin against him.

Credit: Zimbio

Novak Djokovic has had an interrupted season due to injury, but he was at his sparkling best at Rome beating Nadal to win the title.

Roland Garros is the only grand slam title the Serb needs to add to his collection, so we have to expect he will be hungrier here than any other Grand Slam. We know he has the clay-court credentials, he was a runner-up in 2012 and is a four-time semi-finalist.

Over five sets I'm still not sure Djokovic can stay with Nadal physically but he's not far off. If there is anyone that can steal the show, it's Novak.

No one would be surprised to see Novak Djokovic raising the trophy at the end of the two weeks.

 

"I would never bet against Rafael Nadal"

 

Roger Federer and David Ferrer have to be seen as contenders. Roger Federer is definitely past his peak but another run to a grand slam title wouldn't seem out of place, but it would at his least favoured grand slam at Roland Garros.

David Ferrer is last year’s runner-up, but the Spaniards main concern is that he doesn’t have the fire power, the weapons, to win a grand slam. Ferrer winning the title would be a boil-over but the hard worker has the heart, the fitness and the mentality to win. The only question is whether he can step up and attack?

Source: Zimbio

Andy Murray and Stanislas Wawrinka are players that can beat anyone on their day. Andy Murray will go into the grand slam with an unusually low seeding at number eight. While he isn’t in the best form of his career, the Scot will go into the tournament with the belief that he can come out as the champion and that will go a long way.

Wawrinka was a shock winner at the Australian Open, but we’ve always known he has the game of a grand slam champion. For the Swiss number one, it’s about the belief, it’s about confidence. For Stan, it will also be about the consistency, he can play one good match and then terrible the next. He knows he can reach the apex now, but can he do it again?

I would never bet against Rafael Nadal.

Top 5: Following in the footsteps of Na Li

Na Li has been a phenomenon for Chinese tennis as well as tennis in general. The superstar from Wuhan is the first Chinese tennis player, male or female, to win a grand slam tournament (Roland Garros, 2011).  An audience of 330 million people world wide watched Li beat Italian Francesca Schiavone for her first major title, these numbers are unheard of, unmatched. Her influence in the game is astounding.

Just weeks ago, Li won her second grand slam tournament at the Australian Open in Melbourne. The popularity of the rebellious tennis player has sky-rocketed in her home country, garnering million dollar endorsement and inspiring even more young Chinese girls to pick up a tennis racquet.

So, it begs the question...who will follow in the foot steps of Li? China has one of the biggest  populations in the world - will we see an influx of Chinese tennis superstars?

I looked at five young female tennis players that could very well take the baton from Li some day soon.

5. Shuai Zhang

Age: 25
Rank: 51

While Zhang may not be a youngster anymore, if there is anything we have learnt from Li it's that it's never too late to start winning major tournaments. Zhang has the power and flair to match it with the best players, does that sound familiar to anyone?

Zhang needs to learn the art and the subtleties of tennis if she is to progress higher in the rankings. She has the talent and the arsenal, but does she have the drive? That will be the question that Zhang will need to answer, hard-work will see her have good results but she could also easily fade into oblivion without the mental fortitude.

Source: Zimbio

4. Fangzhou Liu

Age: 18
Rank: 307

I put Liu at number four because her results have been consistently good for a long time, without ever being outstanding. Still only aged 18, Fangzhou could have a bright future and she is definitely on my radar.

My main concern here is the lack of tournaments played outside of Asia. Lack of passion or a lack of funds? Either way, both can cripple a tennis career. Without the proper funding and support, Liu could fade away as another wasted talent. Handled correctly by the Chinese tennis federation and we could see Liu playing in grand slam tournaments in a couple of years.

3. Ziyue Sun

Age: 17
Rank: N/A

You may be asking yourself why a seventeen year old without a ranking is on this list. Simple, she has a junior ranking of 13 and some fantastic results to compliment that number. Sun made the semi-final of the Australian Open girls tournament just weeks ago, beating the number 2 seed along the way.

Ziyue has age on her side, at only seventeen years, the world is at her door step. The solid junior results will benefit her in time with wildcards and endorsements coming her way. Let's see if she can make the transition from a good junior player into a proper professional tennis player.

Source: Zimbio

2. Saisai Zheng
Age: 19
Rank: 148

It feels like Saisai has been around forever, still she is only 19 years of age. Equipped with a heavy forehand and a good tennis brain, Zheng looks like she has all the ingredients to be a great player.

In 2011, Saisai reached a career high junior ranking of seven. She has stalled a bit in the last few years, but her game will mature with time. She has a lot of variety and this skill will take a little while longer to perfect. When all of the dots connect, we should see Saisai rocket up the WTA rankings.

1. Shilin Xu
Age: 16
Rank: 550

Shilin is my number one young Chinese player to watch because the results do not lie. Not only is Shilin one of the highest ranked 16 year olds on the junior tour, she's also one of the highest ranked 16 year olds on the pro tour.

With a junior ranking of 11, Shilin has plenty of people talking her up. A tall and powerful girl for her age, there is a lot of upside... mostly being her power. Xu has the artillery to make it to the top and I'm not standing in the way of that.

Source: Zimbio

 

---

We could be seeing a wave of young Chinese players coming through soon; but I don't think we'll be seeing the full affects of Li's influence until about 10 years from now.

The tennis world should get ready...they're coming.

Hopman Cup: Preview and predictions (Day 6 - Night)

Poland [1] v. Australia [7]

Agnieszka Radwanska [Poland] versus Samantha Stosur [Australia]

Tennis is all about match ups. Stosur, who has been poor this week, goes into this match with a 3-1 record against the Pole. Not only that, Stosur's one loss to Radwanska came nearly 5 years ago. Radwanska doesn't have much power, so it give Stosur some time on the ball to really get set for that big forehand. Stosur's shots have a lot of top spin and Radwanska does not like the ball around shoulder height, that could be the difference.

My winner: Stosur in three.

Grzegorz Panfil [Poland] versus Bernard Tomic [Australia]

Bet against Panfil at your own peril. The Pole has been the giant killer of the Hopman Cup, but how long can this last? Panfil hasn't played someone like Tomic before and he may be thrown off his guard. The pressure will be off Tomic here because Australia are already out of the Hopman Cup, which could be a bad thing, there's no motivation for the one lacking motivation. His talent should get him through.

My winner: Tomic in two.

Radwanska/Panfil [Poland] versus Stosur/Tomic [Australia]

Tomic was absolutely woeful in the doubles match against Italy, no foot movement, no power on his volleys, an all around shocker. Radwanska and Panfil will have more motivation in order to move through to the final and should take this one fairly comfortably.

My winner: Poland in two.

Hopman Cup: Preview and Predictions (Day 6)

Canada [4] v. Italy [6]

Eugenie Bouchard [Canada] versus Flavia Pennetta [Italy]

The young Canadian has been mightily impressive this week, beating Stosur and almost upsetting world number 5 Radwanska. This match is evenly poised, it should be a close encounter. Bouchard will have the extra fire power and Pennetta will have a little extra craft. Pennetta has the experience as well and I think that'll be the difference at the end of a long three setter.

My winner: Pennetta in three.

Milos Raonic [Canada] versus Andreas Seppi [Italy]

Raonic was the victim to one of the biggest upsets in Hopman Cup history when he lost to Pole, Panfil. Panfil was able to rush Raonic off the ball, I can't see Seppi having this ability. Seppi's game will give Raonic a bit more time to settle and to get into a rhythm. This match should see Raonic get back into the winners circle.

My winner: Raonic in two.

Bouchard/Raonic [Canada] versus Pennetta/Seppi [Italy]

The Canadians have been hot and cold in their mixed doubles, if they're luke-warm at all the Italian's will take full advantage. Pennetta bossed the court in their mixed doubles match against Australia and she'll be looking to take control again. Both Raonic and Bouchard don't have a lot of doubles experience and whilst they have the bigger game, Italy has the craft and doubles prowess.

My winner: Italy in two.

Italy always make a good account of themselves at the Hopman Cup, but always seem to just come up short of the final.

Hopman Cup: Preview and predictions (Day 5)

USA [2] v. France [3]

Sloane Stephens [USA] versus Alize Cornet [France]

Cornet was quite impressive in her opener against Kvitova, she's definitely on the way back up after dropping from her peak rank of eleven in 2009. Stephens was too good Medina Garrigues and I think it'll be more of the same here. Cornet has more power than Medina, but does play a similar game. Expect some long, exciting rallies in this match.

My winner: Stephens in two.

John Isner [USA] versus Jo-Wilfried Tsonga [France]

Isner can keep up with any player on tour because he may as well serve out of a tree. I expect this to be the case against Tsonga, the sets will be tight, possible a couple tie breakers. Tsonga's quickness and athleticism will be the difference here, he should be able to get a lot of balls back and make the big American play one more ball.

My winner: Tsonga in two.

Stephens/Isner [USA] versus Cornet/Tsonga [France]

This match should be close, it's extremely hard to call. Both teams had good first up wins. Both girls seem fairly even in doubles, but the difference for me should be Isner. His presence alone on a doubles court is extremely intimidating. Tsonga really needs to be active and authoritative for France to have a chance. This one could go either way.

My winner: USA is three.

If USA win, it starts to look like they are favourites to get through group B.

Hopman Cup: Preview and Predictions (Day 4)

Italy [6] v. Australia [7]

Flavia Pennetta [Italy] versus Samantha Stosur [Australia]

Stosur's woes in Australia continued when she slumped to a three-set loss to Eugenie Bouchard. The news gets even worse for Stosur, her record against Pennetta is unfavourable. The crafty Italian has the experience and knowledge to know how to play against the Australian. Pennetta will attack the backhand and move her opponent around. This all adds up to an Italian victory.

My winner: Pennetta in three.

Andreas Seppi [Italy] versus Bernard Tomic [Australia]

Seppi is expected to be healthy enough to play again after withdrawing from the first tie against Poland. The winner of this match will come down to who is more motivated. Tomic will feel that he has something to prove after an abysmal effort against Raonic. Seppi's game will give the Australian enough time to use his varied arsenal.

My winner: Tomic in two.

Pennetta/Seppi [Italy] versus Stosur/Tomic [Australia]

The Aussie's combined well against the Canadians, look for them to battle hard and to be extremely motivated here. Seppi isn't aggressive enough, nor does he have the presence at the net to dominate the match. Look for the best doubles player here, Stosur, to really shine in this match.

My winner: Australia in two.

Australia should redeem themselves a little in this tie. It'll be interesting to see how well Seppi recovers from his illness or whether young Aussie Oliver Anderson will have to step in again.

Hopman Cup: Preview and Predictions (Day 3 - Night)

France [3] v. Czech Republic [5]

Alize Cornet [France] versus Petra Kvitova [Czech Republic]

Kvitova was on fire in her first match against an under-powered Medina Garrigues. The problem for Cornet here is that she plays a similar style to the Spaniard and Kvitova will be out for blood. Like most matches the Czech plays, it'll come down to whether her thunderous shots are landing in or out. The good news for Petra Kvitova, she appears to be in good form and has that winning feeling. Cornet doesn't have much to trouble her.

My winner: Kvitova in two.

Jo-Wilfied Tsonga [France] versus Radek Stepanek [Czech Republic]

While Stepanek looked good in his opening tie, the Frenchman Tsonga is a different kettle of fish. Tsonga looked good in his opening tournament in the middle east, knocking off Andy Murray. He'll be looking to continue the momentum here. Stepanek, as we know, will throw everything at Tsonga and he may even sneak a set.

My winner: Tsonga in three.

Cornet/Tsonga [France] versus Kvitova/Stepanek [Czech Republic]

The Czech's surprised me in the first tie, they gelled even better than I thought they would. Stepanek really is a great doubles player, he'll dominate the match here again. Both Tsonga and Cornet can be quite volatile, so I can see Stepanek frustrating the pair with good net play.

My winner: Czech Republic in two.

Cornet steps in for the recently retired Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli. Her retirement dissipated the chances for France to win the Hopman Cup.

Hopman Cup: Preview and Predictions (Day 3)

USA [2] v. Spain [8]

Sloane Stephens [USA] versus Anabel Medina Garrigues [Spain]

As they were in their tie against Czech Republic, Spain will take the role as the passenger again. Stephens has a lot more game and power than Medina. Both are quick and both can scrap, but the edge in this match will be the extra fire power and athleticism from Stephens, she was born to be an athlete. Stephens likes the conditions in Australia, evident in her semi-final run at the Australian Open last year, she'll be looking to break the top 10 barrier this year, she'll need to be in form from the get-go if she wants to be there.

My Winner: Stephens in two.

John Isner [USA] versus Daniel Munoz-De La Nava [Spain]

It's de ja vu, a lot will depend on how the bigger, more powerful player (Isner) plays. The American is nearly impossible to break, I can't see Munoz having the game here to upset Isner. The Spaniard will fight hard and I think he will keep the sets fairly competitive, he needs to be tidy on his own serve because we know he won't get many chances on the return.

My Winner: Isner in two.

Stephens/Isner [USA] versus Medina Garrigues/Munoz-De La Nava [Spain]

The Americans are formidable in singles, but the presence of Isner in doubles is going to be daunting. Stephens will equip herself well against the male players and the two will be tough to beat. This one will be competitive due to the inexperience in doubles from the American's and the experience that the Spaniard's have in doubles. Isner's presence will be a difference maker.

My Winner: USA in three.

USA could even take down my favourites, the Czech's, if they are on point. Group B looks like it'll be a battle royale between the two countries.

Hopman Cup: Preview and Predictions (Day 2 - Night)

Poland [1] v. Canada [4]

Agnieszka Radwanska [Poland] versus Eugenie Bouchard [Canada]

Both players had good opening victories and this looks to be a tight match. Bouchard does have the fire power to upset Radwanska, and the maturity this young girl is golden. Bouchard just needs to stay patient, if she commits too many errors then she is feeding right into the hands of Radwanska. Agnieszka will have too much experience in the end.

My winner: Radwanska in three.

Grzegorz Panfil [Poland] versus Milos Raonic [Canada]

Panfil surprised many against Italy, he has fire power and good net ability. Raonic is a different player to an injured Seppi however, Raonic will be looking to have a big year and SHOULD, I stress the should, have too much for Panfil. Panfil is having fun out there and has nothing to lose, he'll keep it competitive.

My winner: Raonic is two.

Radwanska/Panfil [Poland] versus Bouchard/Raonic [Poland]

Panfil totally shocked me with his form against Italy, the depth in tennis is amazing considering he is well outside the top 200. The Pole's seem to gel well and I'm going to call an "upset" here, even though Poland are still the number one seeds. I think it'll be close, but I can see Panfil really taking the net by storm. Raonic on the other hand doesn't have the natural ability in the fore-court.

My winner: Poland in three.

Poland are starting to look like they can get out of group A and into the final. No one would have seen this coming after their star Janowicz, withdrew.

Hopman Cup: Preview and Predictions (Day 2)

Czech Republic [5] v. Spain [8]

Petra Kvitova [Czech Republic] versus Anabel Medina Garrigues [Spain]

It's the first tie for group B and it sees my pick for the tournament Czech Republic take on Spain. The opener couldn't be more on Kvitova's racquet. Medina will fight, she's a Spanish clay courter after all, she's as a feisty as they come. Despite all of this, it will depend on whether Kvitova's shots are landing in or not.

My winner: Kvitova in two.

Radek Stepanek [Czech Republic] versus Daniel Munoz-De La Nava [Spain]

Munoz is the replacement for the injured Robredo. Stepanek is well passed his best, however he's the epitome of a wily old veteran and he will battle for every point. The Czech is as crafty as they come, he will use the net to his full advantage and frustrate the Spaniard to no end. Stepanek will get into Munoz's head to give himself a mental edge.

My winner: Stepanek in three.

Kvitova/Stepanek [Czech Republic] versus Medina Garrigues/Munoz-De La Nava [Spain]

Again, the match is on the Czech's racquet. Stepanek will be all over the net here and will look dominate the Spaniards in the fore court. The Spaniards will fight and I think they'll take this to a super tie-break. Kvitova's big lefty swinging serve will allow Radek to knock off a lot of easy volleys at the net.

My winner: Czech Republic in three.

My favourite for the tournament should in theory dominate this tie, the Spaniards just don't have the fire power to match it with them.

Hopman Cup: Preview and Predictions (Day 1 - Night)

Australia [6] v. Canada [4]

Samantha Stosur [Australia] versus Eugenie Bouchard [Canada]

With Seppi ill, group A will open up even more - these two teams have a great opportunity to make the final. Both teams are very solid and this tie is hard to predict, either way I think it will go down to the wire. We all know Stosur freezes when playing in Australia, but with the relaxed Hopman Cup atmosphere, the Aussie should be cool as ice. The match will be close (like their tight match in Osaka that Stosur won). My heart says Stosur - it could go either way.

My winner: Stosur in three.

Bernard Tomic [Australia] versus Milos Raonic [Canada]

Tomic is the complete opposite to Stosur, he thrives in front of the home crowd. The Gold Coast native just lacks drive, he lacks passion... will that ever change? The question probably won't be answered this Summer, but I think this will be a close match. Raonic will be looking to make a big move in to the top ten in 2014 and his serve will be the difference here.

My winner: Raonic in three.

Stosur/Tomic [Australia] versus Bouchard/Raonic [Canada]

Stosur is the best credentialed player in this match - it's just the combination with Tomic that worries me... will they gel? Probably not. I can't imagine two Aussie's with less ability to have chemistry than these two. Again, Raonic's serve will be tough to handle, for Stosur and Tomic - I'm looking for Raonic to dominate the match. If Eugenie can go with him, they'll be the winners. I expect the Australian's to fight hard in front of their home crowd.

My winner: Canada in three.

Canada look the goods here - but this group is so open, anything could happen with Janowicz and now Seppi out. Australia will get better as the competition goes on.

Hopman Cup: Preview and Predictions (Day1)

Poland [1] v. Italy [6]

Agnieszka Radwanska [Poland] versus Flavia Pennetta [Italy]

It's the world number five (Radwanska) against the world number thirty-one (Pennetta). Flavia is great on hard courts, evident in her semi-final run at the 2013 US Open. However, Agnieszka or Aga is world number five for a reason. Radwanska is troubled by the girls with immense power and Pennetta just doesn't have that. Radwanska will be too crafty and solid.

My winner: Radwanska in two.

Grzegorz Panfil [Poland] versus Andreas Seppi [Italy]

Panfil is a replacement for the injured Jerzy Janowicz. The Pole appears to be way out of his depth here against the ever solid Seppi. I don't know much about Panfil, but I think his ranking says it all and looking at his results is not quite ready to take on the main tour players. Seppi won't do anything special but will be too solid.

My winner: Seppi in two.

Radwanska/Panfil [Poland] versus Pennetta/Seppi [Italy]

On one side you have a seasoned doubles team in Italy, we know they'll do all the right things. The wildcard is the Polish team, and they may surprise some people, due to Radwanska's exquisite touch and feel. I feel in the end that the Italians will just have too much experience and savvy.

My winner: Italy in two.

Overall this adds up to a 2-1 victory for Italy. They'll be tough to beat as a combination, the experience and doubles expertise will come in handy at the Hopman Cup, it always does.

Teenagers to watch in 2014 ... Madison Keys

Madison Keys - USA
Rank: 38
Age: 18

Mention the name Madison Keys to anyone who knows anything about tennis and they will tell you, "big game" or "massive potential". In fact, the American has one of the biggest games on tour, a game that would rival the likes of Serena Williams.

Madison is starting to harness her big game too, there's a real lacking in consistency but it's getting better. The positive signs - Keys has a lot of shape on all of her shots, so it'll be easy for her to build in consistency to her game. Her shots aren't just bullets, they're cannons - heavy and forcing.

The teenager is the type of player that no top player wants to see drawn near them in a tournament. She is intimidating, even for the very best.

"Her shots aren't just bullets, they're cannons - heavy and forcing."

In my mind, there is no doubt Madison will be a top player - she just has too much game and potential not to be. However, when it will happens remains to be seen, it's possible that her game will remain a little too raw for a couple of years. Once it is refined, she'll join the elite.

Watch for Madison to make waves at the Australian Open, she seems to perform well down here. Her ranking may yo-yo a bit due to the inconsistency in her play but I think she will rise into the top 20 next year. Her temperament seems fairly good, nothing concerning enough to make one think it'll counteract her potential.

Predictions -

2014 End-of-year ranking - Top 20 (15-16)

I actually think her game will translate to most surfaces. She doesn't come across particularly athletic right now, but that'll be a focal point for Madison going forward. I think she'll have quite a few runs at big tournaments next year and it'll thrust her well into the top 20.

2014 highlight - 4th Round of the Australian Open

I think Madison will have a few runs, but it also depends on what type of player she runs into. A crafty consistent player like Radwanska is not a good opponent for Madison. She can out hit the best of them and that'll get her deep into tournaments like the Australian Open. Watch for her early in the season when she's highly motivated and has a lot of energy.

Teenagers to watch in 2014 ... Nick Kyrgios

Nick Kyrgios - Australia
Rank: 187
Age: 18

Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov has been tagged "Mini-Federer", due to the astounding resemblance in their style of play. Nick Kyrgios may well earn a similar nickname, "Mini-Tsonga".  His game looks like an homage to the Frenchman, with explosive power and athleticism dripping from him.

The Canberra-native won a challenger and futures title in 2013, as well as qualifying for the US Open and reaching the second round of Roland Garros. However, he is possibly more well-known for hitting the number one ranking on the junior circuit, picking up the Australian Open boys title along the way.
 

"The top of the men's game is no place for a teenager."

Kyrgios looks like he will grow into an impressive physique for tennis, so competing with the big boys should be no issue. Once his body matures, I expect him to make a mark on the ATP tour. For the moment a couple of 1st round grand slam wins should be in Nick's future.

Watch for Nick to start making his way into ATP tour events, but don't expect too much just yet. The top of the men's game is no place for a teenager.

A passionate and at times 'hot-headed' temperament may serve Nick well moving forward. He's a fighter and has a lot of determination in matches. When he learns to harness this temperament, it will be a real positive notch for the Aussie.

Predictions -

2014 End-of-year ranking - Top 140-120

While I think Nick will start making his way on to the ATP tour, I don't think the excellent results will come rapidly. When his body and mind matures a little more I expect him to start shooting up the rankings. I thoroughly believe Nick could be a top player.

2014 highlight - 3rd Round of the Australian Open

Nick is the type of player that will be spurred on by his home grand slam rather than hindered. He will undoubtedly receive a wildcard into the event and depending on the draw could really make an impact. I don't think he has the patience to really grind out a gritty Spanish type of player in five sets, so fingers crossed he can stay clear of that type of player.

Teenagers to watch in 2014 ... Eugenie Bouchard

Eugenie Bouchard - Canada -
Rank: 32
Age: 19

2013 was a big year for "Genie". The Canadian reached her first WTA tour final in Osaka and hit a career high ranking of 32.

Bouchard doesn't possess any noticeable weapons in her game, but hard, well-placed, deep shots have allowed her to climb the rankings. She's quick, athletic and has a good head on her shoulders, this may be one of the most important factors in why I think she'll rise even further in 2014.

She lists hard courts as her favourite surface and her results definitely reflect this. I can see her making a run at a grand slam next year but I don't think she'll be quite ready at the Australian Open. Watch for her at next years US Open or possible Wimbledon (Where she has won the junior girls title), the fast surfaces will suit her perfectly.

Her game will mature with time. Her technique, while a tad wonky looking has become smoother as of late. I don't think she has developed her game well enough yet to join the elite, but it's definitely good enough to cause some massive upsets and shake-up some big tournaments with some quarter-final, semi-final runs.

Predictions -

2014 End-of-year ranking - Top 20 (18, 19 region)

I think Bouchard's results will be good enough to earn her a top 20 ranking - but I expect it to come through some runs at bigger tournaments. I also expect a few early losses in between as well, thus stopping her from climbing any higher.

2014 highlight - Q/F of US Open

Expect the US Open to be her go-to grand slam, the surface is quick enough for her and she really shines on hard courts. North America will be where Eugenie feels most comfortable and I wouldn't be surprised by a semi-final at either Indian Wells or Miami.