Wimbledon 2007: Men's Contenders

So I have to admit, I do love the women's game more than the men's - maybe it's the fashion, the drama, the intrigue, the grunting - who knows. Regardless, SI's resident tennis guru Jon Wertheim has offered his 2 pennies on the top contenders in the men's draw so I must offer mine...

TOP CONTENDERS:

Roger Federer - Should we even bother? I'd like to pretend there's some drama in the men's draw, but it seems Fed Ex will steamroll once again. How about this: will Nike finally give Federer the pants to go with the silly jacket he wore to Centre Court last year?

Rafa Nadal - Rafa may have muscled his way into last year's big dance, but the Mallorcan matador won't repeat this year. He's a pleasure to watch (in more ways than one, right?) and I love his fight, but his big wind-up forehand, usually a weapon, will be his undoing.

Andy Roddick - A-Rod is usually the 2nd best grass-court player on the ATP tour, but stumbled last year in what may have been his worst Grand Slam performance (losing to Britain's Andy Murray in a 3rd round beatdown.) He just won Queen's Club for the 4th time, so he looks to be back on track for a good run at Wimby this year.

Novak Djokovic - I love the Djoker! He's super cute, super fun, and dripping with...talent. He has a spotty grass-court record at best so he'll be the major wildcard. If he plays like he has all year and keeps his head on straight, he could make a major run. Go Djoko!


DARK HORSE:

I'm giving my dark horse shout-out to James Blake. Get the monkey off your back already, geesh. You should be a great grass courter so act like one. You're a really, really nice guy but put that aside, grab your balls, and show the field what you've got. Time is NOT on your side. Happy hitting!