The big four and the honorary member

Andy Murray is the top seed in his backyard this year, which leaves him safely ensconced among the favourites despite a rocky road hence. On paper he’s got the goods, but seeing is believing after a cold run-in to Wimbledon in the warm-ups and shaky season in general. From Djok of all Slams to none this year, Novak seems to have lost that lovin’ feeling, but he deserves an honorary mention among the big four, while Stan and that rapier backhand keeps his seat warm as the fourth knight at the table. One false step, and the other Swiss could clean up. Federer won in Halle and it’s no secret that he’s coming for the crown. The king is looking to return again! But the Australian Open euphoria seems light years away with the other king, that is Rafael Nadal, in terrifying form at Roland Garros last month. Despite a shaky record on grass in recent years, the Spaniard is in the kind of state of mind that transcends stats and surfaces. Federer will be fighting off the cold shivers as the ghosts of the 2008 Wimbledon final take their seats on Centre Court. The Rafa and Roger odyssey continues …