So the Australian Open is well under way, and for once there was decent representation in the singles draws for GB. 2 in the men (Murray, Ward) and 4 in the women (Watson, Robson, Keothavong and Baltacha).
By the end of the first day, all bar Murray were gone without so much as winning a set, or even getting as far as 5-5 in a set. There were still decent points in it for Robson and Ward after they came through the qualifying, plus apparently Keothavong was ill. Robson and Watson had horrible draws, but for the rest a wasted opportunity, and even those two (who won 3 games between them) could have done better.
It was a strong positive to have that many singles players in the draw, but when the majority have gone by end of day 1, what's the point? Few British players will fancy the French and then it's Wimbledon, who knows. Going well at slams is vital for image as despite them being just some tournaments out of a calender, most of the British public think tennis players only play the 4 in a year!
So then came Murray, who had an awkward draw against Ryan Harrison, who is only 19 and has the potential to be very good. A potential Tsonga match if ever there was one. Murray even began by making it a 11th British set dropped in a row, before coming through in 4. He has a strong chance this year, but I can't see him winning it.
So Brits first round: Played 6, Won 1, Lost 5, Sets won 3 Sets lost 11. Not the worst it's ever been but not pleasant reading.
At least there's more chance in the doubles. In the mens Fleming/Hutchins are seeded 15 and (J) Murray/Hanley (Who's an Aussie) are seeded 16. Plus Delgado/Marry are in there too. In the womens Keothavong is playing (if fit) with the woman who beat her in the singles and Robson is playing with an Aussie. Maybe they can win a match, maybe not.
As for the winner? Hard to look past Djokovic, plus I expect Tomic to do well... all year.
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