Betfair Official Blog

Tennis Masters Cup betting

Unstoppable Swiss star Roger Federer will again be the one to follow when betting for the Tennis Masters Cup in Shanghai, starting on November 11, gets up and running.

The world number one is sure to see his odds snaffled up when he begins the defence of his crown in China at the Qi Zhong Stadium and will be on a high after landing bets when winning the Australian and US Opens as well as Wimbledon this year.

Widely regarded as the most gifted player of his generation, Federer - always a popular bet in the outright winner market reflected by his customary short odds - will be looking to claim his fourth Tennis Masters Cup title.

The 26-year-old first claimed the trophy in 2003 in Houston and would have rewarded those backing him to claim a hat-trick of triumphs in the betting had it not been for David Nalbandian at long odds two years later.

The top seed faced few problems when crushing James Blake 6-0 6-3 6-4 in the final last year and is likely to dominate the markets when betting on this showpiece event swings into action.

Spain's clay-court king, Rafael Nadal, was the first player to qualify for the Tennis Masters Cup and will be a popular bet to halt the Federer juggernaut.

Federer sent Nadal packing in the semi-finals in Shanghai in 2006 but, after beating his rival to win a third consecutive French Open title this year, the Spanish sensation is sure to appeal in the betting.

The 21-year-old has already won three ATP tournaments this year - including victory over Federer in Monte Carlo - and this should be reflected in his odds.

Novak Djokovic is a live threat after winning four ATP titles this year and reaching the US Open final and could be a sound bet.