On paper, the Novak Djokovic versus Bernard Tomic match may look like the most one-sided of the quarter-final. On the one hand, there is Djokovic, second-seeded in the tournament, and with a 45-1 record this season, which should make him favourite against any opponent. On the other hand, Tomic is an unseeded player, wildcard and an 18-year old, it becomes even more easy, given his lack of experience in playing against the better players on the tour.
However, matches are rarely won based on the seedings and this is why there is much hope from Tomic to be able to deliver the goods – if not to win, then to take the second-seeded Djokovic to the distance. The match will be played on Court No. 1.
So far this Wimbledon, Djokovic has been one of the few who hasn’t had too many problems and has dispatched most opponents with something of a disdain. The fitness is no longer a concern for Djokovic and what has aided his form is the manner in which he has moved around the court. The forehand and backhand have both been dangerous and to go with a good serve, he is clearly the favourite.
Interestingly, even Tomic hasn’t had it too difficult. Barring the one match against Igor Andreev, most others have been easy wins for Tomic. Nikolay Davydenko was demolished, world number five Robin Soderling was stunned and then, Tomic took the scalp of world number 42 Xavier Malisse.
This is the first time the two will be playing against each other and it is not difficult to imagine that Djokovic (1/8) goes in as favourite to win this one. Tomic is at 7/1 to cause an upset.