Gilles Muller (LUX) v Roger Federer (SUI)[2]
Federer leads the 130th ranked Muller head to head 2-0 and has never dropped a set to him. Twice in 2005 Federer won
on hardcourts at Thailand and Indian Wells.
Muller would need to use his lefthanded forehand to hit the big crosscourt attacking groundstrokes to Federer's backhand in
order to apply pressure for any chance of an upset. More likely to happen however is that Federer, seeking his fifth consecutive
US Open title and first major title of 2008, will be the aggressor and close out a tough straight setter.
Prediction: Roger Federer
Andy Roddick (USA)[8] v Novak Djokovic (SRB)[3]
Since reaching the world number one ranking and winning his lone major title here at the US Open in 2003, Andy Roddick,
the lone American male left in the men's singles draw, has seen his ranking drop to a current number eight. Novak Djokovic on
the other hand won his first major title in January at the Australian Open and has risen to a career high world number three
ranking.
Both players will attempt to control points from the baseline, but I give Roddick the advantage based on his superior serve
and more aggresssive groundstrokes. Djokovic also has been treated courtside for a variety of injuries which will not be helpful.
Head to head Roddick is tied with Djokovic 1-1 last winning this year in Dubai 7-6(7-5), 6-3. Djokovic won last year in Canada
by a similar score 7-6(7-4), 6-4.
If Roddick can serve as well as he can and keep points short, Djokovic will find it
difficult to advance.
Prediction: Andy Roddick
