The Top 5 Pro Tennis Contenders This Upcoming Year
With the Australian Open kicking off the new 2010 tennis year, the action is officially back. There are many players rounding out a field that finds itself more competitive than it’s been in quite a few years.
Things will certainly be interesting in men’s tennis this year. It’s one of the first years in recent memory where fans legitimately believe that more than just two players have a chance at finishing on top.
Though Federer and Nadal occupy the top two spots in the world, there are a few players who could end up the year ranked at number one. Let’s take a look at the most likely finishers now.
Every conversation about the number one ranking in the tennis world should start with Roger Federer. He’s the consensus favorite to occupy the top spot year in and year out, and 2010 should be no exception. Still, age will eventually catch up with him and so will some young talent.
Last year, Federer’s dominance was threatened by Rafael Nadal, who legitimately owned the Swiss legend in their head to head matchups. Having beaten him in the finals at the Australian Open and Wimbledon the prior year, Nadal looked to be the likely heir to the throne. Still, he has injury issues that tend to get in the way.
On the rise is the young 20 year old Juan Martin Del Potro, whose incredible win at the US Open shocked many tennis fans. To knowledgeable ones, the Argentine’s emergence wasn’t such a surprise. The kid is incredibly talented and has what it takes to capture the world’s top ranking this year.
Rounding out the field are two more potential players. Let’s take a look at them both.
One is Novak Djokovic, who seems to be playing some great tennis after a brief lull last year. He’s won a grand slam before and there’s no reason to believe that he can’t win some more. Since he’s ranked third in the world right now, a close eye should be kept on him.
Finally, Andy Murray is just 22 years old but his maturity and tenacity propelled him to the number two spot in the world for a few months last year. His competitive spirit will certainly make him a player worth watching this coming year.
