It Could be Roddick's Year

Jim McLennan

Photograph by J.Gregory Swendsen

TennisONE's Jim McLennan likes Roddick's chances.

Remembering the US Open semifinal, where Hewitt and Roddick played down to the wire, they have to be the leading contenders for the Australian Open. On losing Roddick said he had to get on with improving his game, and when his backhand approaches the technique of Agassi, he will rule the roost.

Coming off the recent Davis Cup victory, look for strong performances from Frenchman Grosjean, and Clement, and perhaps Escude, who got through to the semifinals some two years ago Down Under.

Spain has showed little in Australia, and this year may be no different.

Finally, as for the Aussies, Rafter is injured (or at least he was) and Phillipousis is still on the mend.

Kuerten is in a funk.

Agassi is a father and Sampras is just not who he was - so on with the youth, Roddick and Hewitt in a five set final, this one going to the American

Got some other ideas about this years tournament? Let us know if you agree or disagree by emailing us here at TennisONE.

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