The editors of TENNIS Magazine and TENNIS.com weigh in with their predictions on who will be victorious at the 2007 Pacific Life Open.
James Martin, Editor in Chief
"Roger Federer came off a break to win Dubai last week, looking sharper as the event went on, but there was still some rust. It'll be all gone, of course, by the time Federer wins his third straight Pac Life title."
"The women's draw is lacking some star power (no Williams sisters, no Clijsters, no Henin), with Maria Sharapova the only proven big-time champion. Look for her to repeat in the desert. "
Steve Tignor, Executive Editor
"Roger Federer. He’s won 40 straight matches, and his main rival, Nadal, is struggling to find his form on hard courts."
"Svetlana Kuznetsova. Just when you forget she’s still around, she surprises you. And she’s got a cake-walk draw into the quarters. "
Jon Levey, Senior Editor
"Roger Federer is the boring and safe pick, but the guy hasn’t lost at this tournament since 2003."
"Jelena Jankovic feels due for a big breakthrough, or a huge meltdown. Either way, she’ll be entertaining to watch. "
Tony Lance, Associate Editor
"I'm going out on a limb and saying Federer. Nadal's draw stinks (Youzhny and Berdych are in his way) and he hasn't done anything notable since Wimbledon. If he makes it to the semis his tournament will be a success. Look for a good showing from Roddick. My dark horse is Andy Murray."
"With Henin, Mauresmo, Clijsters and Serena Williams sitting this one out, Sharapova is the player to beat. But if Jelena Jankovic, who's in Sharapova's quarter, is healthy she could take down the top seed for the first time and go on to the title."
David Rosenberg, Photo Editor
"Andy Roddick. Federer’s streak of breaking records will be broken at this event."
"Nadia Petrova. Is there anyone else? ."
Christopher Chung, Associate Editor
"Federer - By winning this tournament, Federer can break or match all sorts of records and milestones (fourth consecutive IW title, $30 million in prize money, 500 career wins, consecutive tournaments won record, consecutive matches won record...). He's got all the pressure. So he'll probably do it."
"Maria. The Kuz could be a factor, since she's played well this year. But Sharapova's steadiness -- she's failed to make the semis of an event only two times since the start of 2006 -- should win her the title."
Sarah Unke, Assistant Editor
"It's been a week, so it's about time for Federer to break another record. When he wins Indian Wells he'll hold record for consecutive wins with 47 in a row."
"No. 1 is on the line for Sharapova in Indian Wells, and even though she says holding the top spot isn't that big a deal to her, we know she performs best under pressure."
Kamakshi Tandon, Online Editor
"What -- I'm supposed to pick Federer for the 89th time in a row?"
"Sharapova. She could be rusty, but the field isn't strong enough for her not to be a big favorite."