Andrey Rublev may be chief danger to third Djokovic Doha crown

Monday

ATP Qatar Open (starts 12.30pm)
Novak Djokovic bids to add the Qatar Open title to his Mubadala exhibition win in Abu Dhabi last week and while the world number one is likely to dominate in Doha for the third time in four years, it would be remiss the rule out other title contenders in the field.

Second seed Dominic Thiem or David Goffin, seeded sixth, could provide Djokovic with most trouble in the final, while Guido Pella deserved his run to the semi-finals last year.

In the first quarter of the draw, Djokovic, 31, may have to work hard to deny Andrey Rublev, who lost to Gael Monfils in the title match last season, while in the second quarter the winner of the opener between third seed Karen Khachanov and three-time Grand Slam hero Stan Wawrinka could have to watch out for Nicolas Jarry in round two.

Talent-wise, however, if anyone could upend Djokovic it may be Rublev and rather than punt the favourite at heavy odds-on, a bet on the young Russian may be prudent.

Recommendation
A Rublev
1pt 40-1 Betfred

ATP Tata Open Maharashtra (9.30am)
Amazon Prime
It's no surprise to see Kevin Anderson favourite for the Tata Open Maharashtra after his gallant title defence in Abu Dhabi, but while the top seed is the likeliest winner he looks plenty short enough for a first Pune crown.

Gilles Simon defeated Anderson 7-6 6-2 in last year's Tata Open final, but that was straight after the South African's emotional Mubadala triumph so perhaps punters should not read too much into that result.

Simon, who defends his Indian Open crown, could again meet Anderson but this year it would be in the semi-finals as both players are in the same half of the draw.

Hyeon Chung and Malek Jaziri are the top seeds in the bottom half and that suggests the event could be wide open with a big-priced finalist a possibility.

It's a joy to see Steve Darcis in the field after the Belgian looked set to end his playing days, but of greater interest to punters could be the presence of Ivo Karlovic.

The big-serving Croat, a capable title winner on his day, dropped out of the top 100 last season but is worth chancing.

Recommendation
I Karlovic
1pt each-way 50-1 Betfair, Paddy Power

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