Federer questions Murray’s readiness for prime time
- Federer, Tennis -
Agence France-Presse
MELBOURNE–Roger Federer Tuesday backed his own chances for lifting a fourth Australian Open title while marveling that British bookies are tipping untried Andy Murray for the trophy.
“Murray’s the favorite? Good for him, but it doesn’t help him a lot,” said the Swiss player at the presentation of the eight-man Kooyong Classic, considered the top tune-up for the grand slam starting on Monday.
But after losing twice to the Scot this month, once at an unofficial exhibition and in the Doha ATP semi-finals, Federer does give the number four player his due.
“He’s put himself into a great position,” said the 13-time grand slam champion who could pull level on the all-time best of 14 held by Pete Sampras with a title in Melbourne.
“He’s playing well and finished well last year. But I’m surprised that the bookies say he’s the favorite. He’s never won a slam, it’s surprising to hear,” he said.
