Events / Editor / 20 September 2007 /

James Blake will go in search of a unique hat-trick at the Stockholm Open on October 8, with betting punters left to decide if the American can win the title for a third year in a row.

The world number six claimed victory in the Swedish capital in 2005 and 2006, with the odds likely to indicate that Blake will be the man to beat again in 2007 at the indoor hard court tournament.

Those considering a bet on the event though should consider that no player has been able to win three consecutive Stockholm Open titles, with John McEnroe (twice), Stefan Edberg, Boris Becker and Thomas Enqvist all claiming back-to-back victories.

Blake has won both finals in straight sets, against Paradorn Srichaphan in 2005 and Jarkko Nieminen in 2006, and is certain to be among the betting favourites again this year.

The 27-year-old has won two ATP Tour titles this year, in Sydney and New Haven, but betting followers of Blake will be disappointed that he hasn't made more of an impact, especially in the Grand Slam events. Blake's favourite surface is hard court though and that will come into the reckoning of many punters seeking a bet on the Stockholm Open.

Those eyeing a bet on a home success will probably look to either Thomas Johansson, who is a two-time winner, or Jonas Bjorkman, who was the 1997 champion.

There is also a doubles event at the Stockholm Open for betting punters to get involved in, with Australian Paul Hanley enjoying an excellent record in recent years.

The 29-year-old Aussie has claimed the title in the last two years, with Zimbabwe's Kevin Ullyett last year and fellow countryman Wayne Arthurs in 2005, while also finishing as runner-up in the previous three years. Many customers will be checking the odds on Hanley for another success in 2007.

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