French Open preview and odds: Radek Stepanek vs Andy Murray

Published on: 20/05/2016

French Open preview and odds: Radek Stepanek vs Andy Murray

May 22, 2016 TBC - Roland Garros

Nearly 10 years after he peaked at No. 8 in the world and 14 years after his first Grand Slam appearance, 37-year-old Radek Stepanek will open his French Open campaign against World No. 2 Andy Murray.

Murray in buoyant mood following win over Djokovic

Andy Murray defeated Novak Djokovic for only the second time in 14 games and for the first time ever on clay to lift the Rome Masters title two weeks ago.

The win will give Murray a massive boost as he sets out on his quest to secure a first ever French Open title. The Scot has yet to reach a final at Roland Garros but has made it to the semi-finals on three occasions. Last year, he was beaten in a five-set thriller at the penultimate stage by his Serbian nemesis.

The British No. 1 has a 14/2 record on clay in 2016, with his only defeats coming at the hands of Djokovic and Rafa Nadal.

Murray`s opponent will be the veteran Czech player Radek Stepanek who will be making his 14th appearance at Roland Garros. The 37-year-old World No. 129 came through the qualifying rounds to book his place in the first round proper.

Despite being a Grand Slam regular, Stepanek has only reached the last eight of a major on one occasion (Wimbledon 2006). However, he is a five-time ATP Tour title winner with his last win coming at the Legg Mason Tennis Classic in Washington back in 2011.

Betting predictions

Murray seems to have found his game on clay at just the right time and should have no problem seeing off the old-timer.

Back Murray to win in straight sets with Bet365.

By Neil Morris

Published on: 20/05/2016

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (20/05/2016 21:01:11) but are subject to change.