Since last year I've become a bit of a tennis nut, so I've been religiously following the coverage of 2011 Australian Open since it began on 17 January and tomorrow is the big final and Andy Murray is up for one of the biggest matches of his life against the contender and one time Aussie Open Slam winner Novak Djokovic. This Grand Slam is especially exciting because for once the number 1 and 2 seeds, Nadal and Federer have been knocked out the tournament and Andy is playing a player that is closer to his level (Murray is No 5 and Djoky No 3), which means he could come closer to his ultimate goal. Also Murray and Djokovic are both superb hard court players so both have the opportunity to play to their strengths.
But the big question on every one's lip is of course: can Andy Murray actually win this grand slam? Well in my opinion he could very well do it and it would be terrific to see him take the title, but it all depends purely on how well he'll play tomorrow. Andy is also really up against it with the Djokovic, who has played consistantly well throughout this tournament so far and hasn't even dropped a set even when defeating the great Roger Federer. Andy on the other hand has dropped two sets, but despite a few dips in his performance he has also come through the tournament playing really well. But again he did struggle against his semi finalist opponent David Ferrer who put on a gutsy performance yesterday, Andy thankfully did turn it around and found his groove as he played on but he kind of lost it again in the 4th set letting Ferrer back in the game again but ultimately though Ferrer lost in the tiebreaks.
I'm certain that on a level of wanting to win the Australian Open grand slam that both Murray and Djokovic want it really badly in equal measure, but the question for Andy is, does he believe in himself enough? When Murray loses points or sets he tends to beat himself up and get angry at himself, but Djokovic goes out with a more positive attitude (well ok he does get annoyed at times, e.g. he knocked over his chair at Wimbledon last year in the semis in frustration when playing Berdych in the semis). Djokovic said after his semi final match in interview that he does belief in himself and its that sort of belief Andy Murray really needs to show tomorrow in order to win this final. He has the guts to win and he has the ability, and even if he struggles against Djokovic a bit tomorrow, he might just be able to turn it around, but it all boils down to how well he'll play.
So Andy this easier said than done and am not the best person to give this advice but here goes: keep the unforced errors down, hold your serve, keep strong and (I can't believe I'm going to say this) don't stop believin! (Cringe!!!!!!). And don't let Djokovic turns this into a demolition derby for you. Then we might just see that great miracle; the first British player to win a tennis singles grand slam final in 75 years.
Its gonna be a hell of a match, and we are all behind you (well thousands of miles actually! ;-), so the very best of luck tomorrow, sir!
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