Federer backs Murray for number one

It now appears to only be a matter of time before Andy Murray goes on and reaches the top of the world rankings, which is something that has often looked as though it simply wouldn’t happen.

The Scottish star’s US Open triumph in September has finally proved he can win a grand slam, and his Olympic gold medal has only gone further to highlight the emergence of a player whose career has now entered another level.

Gone are the doubts that Murray would ever be able to...

Philip Oliver

Rafa eyes Finals return

Rafael Nadal could be set to make an early return from injury in time to play in the ATP Tour Finals and then the Davis Cup final.

Many tennis tips had predicted he would return for the two big events left in 2012, but now the Spaniard’s uncle and coach, Toni, has revealed the 26-year old will soon return to training.

Nadal has been out of action since his shock Wimbledon second round defeat to Lukas Rosol, once again failing to shake off the niggling knee problems...

Philip Oliver

Federer Wary of Murray Threat

World number one, Roger Federer, has pinpointed Andy Murray as a major threat to his position at the top of the world rankings.

Since lifting his maiden major title at the US Open in September, Murray has spoken of his desire to add more Grand Slams to his trophy cabinet and has targeted a more consistent 2013, with the hope of leapfrogging the Swiss at the summit.

Federer feels the Scot can hit his targets, admitting to the sport news that he will have a keen eye on...

Philip Oliver

Tennis sees sense with AUS Open cash boost

An increase in the total prize fund available at the Australian Open has been widely accepted by tennis fans, pundits and players after a long argument over competitors’ prize money was finally resolved.

Tournament organisers have injected an extra £2.6m into the competition, although it is yet unknown how the money will be distributed. This means the total prize fund for competitors stands at £19.3m, making the Australian Open the most lucrative tennis event on the planet.
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Philip Oliver

Stosur hopes to hit ground running

The popular conception is that rest is often the best cure.

Sam Stosur will be hoping that age-old saying proves prophetic when she gets her Japan Open campaign underway this week.

The tournament is certain to provide the competition that the 28-year-old needs to blow off the cobwebs off the back of her disappointing mission to defend her US Open title and as part of her efforts to reach the prestigious season-ending championships.

Defeat to the world...

Philip Oliver