I said this in a lead-up yarn, but Marseille opening round is a spot where I’m interested in buying into Andy Murray.
It’s got very little to do with what the form guide says, and more to do with the media scrutiny directed at the 36-year-old lately.
Murray, who was bowled out of Montpellier by Benoit Paire last week, fought off comments from the BBC about his declining career, with the broadcasting juggernaut suggesting he call it quits on his career.
While I don’t necessarily disagree with what they’ve said, I do think Murray is someone who can definitely fire up in the face of adversity, and I’m going to back him to do so.
Machac is first-up off a scratchy Australian trip and will need to play on a quick surface that Murray should really enjoy.
The grand-slam winning Brit won this title back in 2008, and he should take to these conditions more so than he did at Montpellier.
I’ve got no doubt Machac – who is very talented – will win more matches in the next 12 months, but this is purely a play on Murray’s perceived motivation as I feel his level will increase.
There’s no doubt Machac has been a juggernaut in the last 12 months, particularly on the Challenger Circuit, but he has limited exposure to the main draw and even with an 11-7 record in the last year, he’s no moral to rock up and handle players with Murray’s experience, especially first up off an Australian trip.
Suggested Bet
0.5 units Andy Murray to WIN @ $2.85 with SportsBet
0.5 units Andy Murray +3.5 @ $1.80 with SportsBet
Over 18s Only (21+ in some jurisdictions). 1 unit = 1% of bankroll. Please enjoy your betting responsibly. Never bet more than you can afford to lose, and do not chase a loss.
Jake’s Marseille Preview: Murray vs. Machac
