ATP World Tour Finals 2014: Andy Murray vs Roger Federer match preview

A look ahead to the Group B match in the men’s singles

Andy Murray takes on Roger Federer (Getty Images)

It’s no secret that this year’s ATP World Tour Finals have lacked thrilling, close singles clashes. It could all change today as all four players from group B could still book a semi-final berth.

One of them is Andy Murray who kept his chances alive as he won his last match against the recently withdrawn Milos Raonic 6-3 7-5 on Tuesday.

His next opponent, Roger Federer is the closest to qualifying, with two victories to his name so far. He might not even have to win tonight to move to the next stage, but that doesn’t mean he will be saving himself.

For Federer a win, or at least a set off Murray, would mean he finishes top of the group and would most likely avoid meeting Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals.

Djokovic, who dominated Group A, is the only player this season who managed to beat Federer on more than one occasion.

Murray could also progress regardless of the result provided that David Ferrer (replacing Raonic after he withdrew) beats Kei Nishikori in the afternoon session and he ends up with the most favourable set and games difference out of the three.

At the same time he could beat Federer and still be sent packing if Nishikori beats Ferrer.

Federer and Murray are set to meet for the 23 time in their careers and so far they’ve claimed 11 victories apiece. It was Federer, however, who won both of their clashes in 2014.

START: Thursday (not before 8pm)

PAST MEETINGS:

2014 Cincinnati (Hard) Federer won 6-3, 7-5

2014 Australian Open (Hard) Federer won 6-3, 6-4, 6-7, 6-3

2013 Australian Open (Hard) Murray won 6-4, 6-7, 6-3, 6-7, 6-2

STATS:

The players have met at the ATP World Tour Finals before in 2009, 2010 and 2012. Federer was victorious on all three occasions.

Roger Federer has won 25 games so far in the tournament and lost 12, while Andy Murray has won 21 and lost 20.

Andy Murray has won 58 matches this season, including three ATP finals. Roger Federer has won 68 and lifted five trophies.

ODDS:

Murray to win 3

Federer to win 1.49

TV/Radio: Sky Sports 3/ BBC Radio 5