posted August 8, 2007 at 16:28 in Tennis Articles

Montreal, Canada –In the bottom half of the draw, perhaps the most exciting tennis betting matchup is the first-ever clash between No. 2 Rafael Nadal and No. 22 Marat Safin. How is it that these two have never met in a tournament before? Baffling indeed! Well, that is neither here nor there, as finally the luck of the draw has made this showdown possible. So, without further ado, here are the picks for some of the blockbuster matchups in the second round.

Andy Roddick -900 Arnaud Clement +450

Tennis Prediction: – AT -900, Roddick is the sure bet in this matchup. Notwithstanding Clements 2-1 lead in career head-to-heads over Roddick, Roddick holds more value. Hardly ever an early round casualty in tournaments, Roddick advancing into the third round is an almost certainty. Further strengthening his odds is his recent victory in Washington, DC (his first ATP title in 2007) and a 42/10 record for the season.

Tennis Free Picks: – Roddick in straight sets

Rafael Nadal -550 Marat Safin +325

Tennis Prediction: – As this is the first-ever clash between No.2 Rafael Nadal and No.22 Marat Safin, on a surface that is not considered Nadal’s strongest, Rafa is modestly favored at -550. Even so, Nadal holds excellent value.

On paper, Nadal carries more weight than any other player on the tour this season, and is second only to Federer. Holding an impressive 56/8 record for the season, which includes six ATP titles this year alone (five of which were on clay and one on hard) Nadal leads the ATP race in points thus far. One of the most versatile and consistent players, Nadal is ruthless and relentless at every tournament. Betting on Nadal is a no-brainer.

Tennis Free Picks: – Nadal in straight sets.

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Nila Amerova is a freelance sports writer and regular contributor to the BetUS.com Locker Room.