Novak Djokovic vs. Tomas Berdych

I think this match will be fairly one-sided.  Novak Djokovic can accumulate a 4-2 set record with a straight set win over Berdych.  Kei Nishikori can at best post a 4-3 set record if he beats Roger Federer in straight sets.  Novak’s best path to the semifinal round and continuing his quest to defend his title runs through Tomas Berdych.  The Big Czech did push Novak in Monte Carlo, but unless everything is working for Berdych in terms of serving big, returning with a purpose, and directing traffic with big ground strokes early in points, Berdych is in a heap of trouble.

Djokovic will need to take care of his own service games, and return well to win.  I like the player with the shorter to do list to win.

My Prediction: Novak Djokovic d. Tomas Berdych 6-3, 6-2