Andy Murray to win the Australian Open!

[Gandalf]

This is an Australian Open thread and differences of opinion are most welcome.

I would just like to take this opportunity to say that I think the incredible Andy Murray is going to win the Australian Open as he is really good and has my favourite tennis personality.

Who do you chaps think will win?

[ryanman]

Murray has shown a return to form in the warm up events. Very impressive against Nadal.

Still let's see if he is back to his best when it matters. 2014 was really quite poor.
He has a very tough draw (thanks largely to his poor 2014) and would have to potentially beat, Dimitrov, Nadal, Federer just to make the final.

Djokovic is the strong favourite I'd say.

[Master]

Federer survived a bee sting and still managed to win.

[Plopeater]

Tough Route for Murray, possibly Federer in the QF, Nadal in the SF and Djokovic in the Final if they all get through.

Will be a good win for him if he lifts the trophy.

[Gandalf]

Novak is definitely favourite. Federer is also looking very svelte, but I have to say that Nadal looked really bad yesterday. You look at all the thin elite like Murray, Fed and Djokovic and then compare it with the bloated, wheezing Nadal of yesterday going 5 sets with a journeyman. He looked really off and you can't be having 4 hour marathons in the second round. The other 2 are the main threats this year, but I wonder how good Fed still is if taken deep. It's Djokovic I worry about most as he has an engine and the skills.

Murray always starts the first week in a good mood, but then starts moaning in the second week. Hold off on the moaning and self berating, Andy. We wanted Scottish independence too! You can become the new Alex Salmond after you win some more majors! Go Andy!

[Gandalf]

Federer's turn to work 5 sets or go home in the baking sun. Looking good for Murray! Now if only someone will give that Djokovic guy a workout.

Murray crooooooooooooooooooooooooooooozing through in his match with only set 3 having to share anything thus far. Boooootiful.

Edit 2: Wow, Federer out. I feel bad for him actually and have no idea why he left that last shot. Why would you when the court is open and your opponent cannot get it back? Fed did that a couple of times in this match. Oh well, one big gun down. A smaller army to face off against.

[ryanman]

Dimitrov next up. Wiped the floor with the 2014 spec Murray at Wimbledon. Very tough match.