The Asian part of the ATP Tour has started this week. With events at in Thailand and Malaysia; the Asian continent will be blessed with the talents of Andy Murray, Gael Monfils and Nicolas Almagro this week.
Bangkhok, the Thai Capital, was suppose to also host Roger Federer. Federer is a fan's favourite and enjoys his time in Bangkhok. He had to withdraw to make sure that he is healthy enough to finish the year out. His break might be due to his recent heart breaking loss to Djockovic after leading by two sets. That was the second grand slam in a row that Federer that has crashed out of after losing to Tsonga at Wimbledon in the same situation. However, Federer does also have a set of twins that are young and he is getting older so maybe this break is what he needs if he is to defend his end of year title in November.
Bangkhok are not short if big names though. Andy Murray is the number 1 seed. One of tennis' biggest show men, Gael Monfils, is the second seed and always creates a show. Fellow Frenchman Gilles Simon is the third seed. His hard work style of player will delight the crowds. The Thai tennis fanbase are in for a real treat this week.
Kuala Lumpur do not have as many big names as Bangkhok, but enough of a top 20 representation to hopefully keep strong numbers. One of the most talented men on tour, Nicolas Almagro, heads the draw. The Spaniards' shot making ability will keep that crowd on their feet all the way to the final I hope. Second seed, Viktor Troicki, is the next biggest name. Troicki will be fresh after he was not picked to play against Del Potro as Serbia lost in Davis Cup a week ago. 2011 is a great year for the Serb and he will hope it continues although an appearance in London is a long shot. The wild-card given to Marcos Baghdatis is the biggest name for me. Baghdatis' showmanship matches that of Monfils. His aggressive style of play and natural enjoyment he will bring to the circuit is priceless. He has already showed his worth by defeating sixth seed Alex Bogomolov Jr.
The top two men's players are missing in Asia. However, that will not stop a high number of people enjoying the ATP Tour at its finest. Both events look like tough ones. I think that Murray is the clear pick for the title in Bangkhok. In Kuala Lumpur, I think that the winner between Baghdatis and Devvarman have the ability to go far; then again with a draw that also includes Almagro, Troicki, Melzer and Tipsarevic anyone seems to have the ability to take home title. Enjoy this one people/
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