ATP Washington Preview

An exciting line-up will head to Washington this week with Tomas Berdych, Andy Roddick, Marin Cilic, John Isner and Fernando Verdasco all looking for some success in the run up to this years US Open. In the first quarter, number 1 seed Tomas Berdych is projected to meet John Isner. Berdych could meet Richard Gasquet who is always a danger man meanwhile Isner could meet Thiemo De Bakker who comfortably defeated him at Wimbledon; however he is likely to be much stronger this time round and i would say both Berydch and Isner should overcome early tests. In the second quarter, Verdasco is projected to meet Marcos Baghdatis. Verdasco could face Michael Llodra who has been on good form recently with a title in Eastbourne and strong performances for France in the Davis Cup including defeating Verdasco. Therefore i'd side with Llodra, who has been receiving coaching from good friend Amelie Mauresmo to reach the QF. Baghdatis will have to overcome Ernest Gulbis who is continuing his recovery from injury. I'd predict that Baggy will have too much for Gulbis and face off with Llodra in the 2nd QF.

In the third quarter, Sam Querrey is projected to meet Marin Cilic. Querrey has just won the tournament in Los Angeles despite struggling his way through to the final. I cannot see him continuing his success here with either Tipsarevic or Hewitt dispatching of him. Cilic has failed to match his credentials for a large portion of this year but will look to rediscover form on his favourite surface. He could yet be stopped in his tracks by Mardy Fish who has won his previous 2 tournaments; therefore i'm going for a Hewitt v Fish QF. In the 4th quarter, Wawrinka is projected to meet Roddick. Wawrinka could meet David Nalbandian who is a real threat on the ATP tour when fit. Roddick should meet rising star Nishikori (who i'm predicting will beat Simon) and progress to the QF to play Wawrinka, who will look to flourish after recently acquiring a new coach.

My tip for the Washington title is John Isner who i expect to put some good results together over the next couple of weeks. Also look out for Andy Roddick, Mardy Fish and Michael Llodra to go deep into the draw.