John McEnroe has nominated Andy Murray as one of the three who have what it takes to win this year’s US Open. I wonder if he has put the ‘mockers’ on Murray’s attempt. Mind you, Murray hasn’t helped himself in recent years when it comes to majors – he just doesn’t seem to be able to crack it for a win. When it comes to tennis betting, online bookmakers are not taking any risks moving Murray to a clear second favourite behind Roger Federer.

Federer, of course, is also in McEnroe’s list along with tournament third favourite Rafael Nadal. Federer is entitled to favouritism, especially given that Murray and Nadal are scheduled to play each other in the semi’s – if they progress that far. Nadal has already done it; tough having to work hard to win his first match. He doesn’t need too many of these tough matches given his run of injuries in recent years.

Bookmakers have Murray at 7/2 with Federer firming in to 7/4. Nadal has eased ever so slightly and is now at 36/10. Djokovic also struggled in his opening match and has eased to around 18/1. It’s an interesting betting race at the top with Murray at good odds – if he can be trusted to go the distance.

Tennis, like most sports, is one where you have to take your chances when offered. Murray has beaten both Federer and Nadal over the last month so there’s no reason why he can’t go the distance. He is starting to get a reputation for being a choker – he needs to finally win a major to shake that image. Online bookmakers are predicting a Federer-Murray final. So do we and we’re also predicting a maiden slam for Murray – and odds of 7/2 look to be good value.