Federer questions Murray odds

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:13

Murray has started 2009 in red-hot form, beating Federer and Rafael Nadal in a pre-season exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi before rolling the Swiss star in the semi-finals in Doha last week and demolishing American Andy Roddick in the final.

“He’s playing well and finished strongly last year. But I’m surprised that the bookies say that,” said Federer, who will be gunning for a record-equalling 14th grand slam title when the Australian Open kicks off next Monday. “He’s never won a slam … it’s surprising to hear.”

Murray, who lost to Federer in the final of the US Open, rocketed up to fourth in the world on the back of a breakthrough 2008 in which he won a career-high five ATP titles.

“Andy’s shown for a year that’s he’s knocking on the door. He’s a good all-round player, has good tactics and he’s full of confidence,” added Federer.

“But winning a slam is a different animal. Not many guys have been able to win them over the last few years. Rafa and I have taken a lot of them.

“It doesn’t happen that easily but he has a chance like many other players.”

Federer said he was feeling fit and refreshed heading into the year’s first grand slam.

“I’m really happy coming down under and I love playing here,” he said.

“I’m coming off the US Open last year … so I hope I can continue that here in Australia.”

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