Former world No. 1 Andy Roddick, who won 32 titles during his successful career, returns with his Wimbledon picks for Betway. Having reached three Wimbledon finals, Roddick certainly knows a thing or two about how to win on a grass court.
Let’s check in to see what the American thought about the year’s third Major.
Alcaraz and Sinner: The Ones to Watch
Roddicks’s views on the new Big 2 are full of admiration: “I’m not overly concerned about Carlos Alcaraz not winning at Queen’s. After his success at Roland Garros, he probably took a week off and then played at Queen’s just to get a couple of matches under his belt.”
Alcaraz owns three Majors and is the defending champions at SW19.
Roddick also weighed in on newly crowned world No. 1 Jannik Sinner.
“Sinner impressed me at Halle, said Roddick. “particularly with his movement on grass. Traditionally, players need to be cautious on this surface, but Sinner moved exceptionally well, making sharp cuts and recovery shots. His performance was very impressive.”
Djokovic: Can He win his Eighth Title?
Roddick, who played Novak Djokovic on nine occasions, had this to say about the legendary Serb: “If Novak Djokovic is fully fit, he’s likely the favourite on grass, but his current condition is uncertain.”
There’s a difference between being ready for practice and being prepared for five-set matches. He’s stated he isn’t interested in playing unless he believes he can win the tournament.”
It looks like Djokovic will be a ready for a great fortnight.
Murray: A True Legend
Two-time Wimbledon winner Andy Murray has stated that this will be his final Wimbledon.
Murray, who has been struggling with a back injury as of late, will begin his campaign against Tomas Machac from the Czech Republic.
Roddick had this to say about Murray: “Andy impresses me on many levels. He might not have had the same natural talents as Nadal, Federer, or Djokovic, but his hard work and high tennis IQ have made him a superstar. Despite his success, he approaches each practice as if he’s never won anything. I hope he receives the proper send-off he deserves.”
Draper: A Promising Future
Britain’s Jack Draper recently win the title in Stuttgart and reached the quarterfinals in Queen’s Club.
Roddick’s thoughts on the Britain’s top ATP star were very clear: “His potential is evident, especially with his powerful serve, said Roddick.” Wins against top players like Alcaraz are exciting, but consistency and fitness are key to a successful career. Draper’s potential is huge, and I hope his body holds up under extreme conditions.”
American Hopes: Paul and Fritz
Always following his fellow Americans, Roddick had some great insight on the two, top players from the USA: “Tommy Paul and Taylor Fritz are both skilled on grass, said Roddick.”
“Paul’s discipline and professionalism are commendable, and his well-rounded game suits all surfaces. This year, he’s made the semis at Indian Wells and Rome and won at Queen’s, showing his versatility. I hope he breaks into the top 10.”
Hurkacz: A Grass Court Threat
Known for defeating Roger Federer during his final match at Wimbledon, Hubert Hurkacz is one of the top grass court players.
Roddick’s thoughts on the Pole were: “Alongside him, players like Jan-Lennard Struff, Christopher Eubanks, Daniil Medvedev, and Matteo Berrettini also pose significant threats, said Roddick. Berrettini, in particular, is someone nobody wants to face early on.”
Berrettini could face Sinner in round two.
Swiatek: Challenges on Grass
Iga Swiatek is set to be one of the greatest women’s players, but grass presents challenges for her. With her elite contemporaries excelling on grass, she isn’t a clear favorite. Aryna Sabalenka, Jess Pegula, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina are strong contenders. Sabalenka, despite some recent fatigue, is my top pick given the uncertainties around the others.
Jabeur: Overcoming Past Defeats
The women’s draw looks wide open and Roddick provided some insight on two-time finalist Ons Jabeur.
“Ons is a great champion, but she’ll need to overcome the emotional scars from her past finals losses, said Roddick. It’s essential to acknowledge and deal with these challenges, taking it one day at a time.”
Raducanu: An Uncertain Path
Popular with the hometown crowd, former US Open winner Emma Raducanu is a welcome addition to the Championships.
Roddick had this to say about the Brit: “Emma’s absence from the French Open was surprising, said Roddick. While I sympathize with the challenges she’s faced, consistency is crucial. Her sporadic appearances make it hard to gauge her current form.”
Tennis and the Olympics: A Tough Mix
With the Olympics on everyone’s mind, Roddick weighed in on the difficulties of an Olympic year on Tour.
“Playing across different surfaces in a short span is tough on the body. While the Olympics are special, the schedule can be harsh. Balancing participation with preserving one’s body for major events like the US Open is a logical decision for many players, said Roddick.”
The Wimbledon Championships begins on Monday in London, England.
