Analysis for Simon-Schuettler (Australian Open)

Head-to-head record 1:0

Rainer Schuettler is a German veteran who achieved his best career successes right here in Melbourne. He had is breakthrough year in 2003, when he finished in the ATP top 10 for the first time improving his ATP ranking for the ninth year in succession, which is best among current players. He became a runner-up at 2003 Australian Open which is probably his best-career result so far. Most people believe his current ranking belies his true ability, and being a former top 5 player he represents a tought opponent for anyone. For this reason Andy Murray's recent triumph over him in the Qatar Open was particularly impressive. German is heavily reliant on his serve and prefers fast surfaces. One of Rainer's most effective combinations is the serve out wide on the deuce court followed by an inside out forehand winner. His return game has been labeled his greatest weakness. Gilles Simon is a French professional tennis player. He turned pro in 2002 and his highest ranking ever, as of 2007 is 29th. His biggest weapon is movement and he prefers clay and slower surfaces. His first-round performance against Reynolds was really far from being stellar. He defeated mediocre American in 5 sets. Schuettler outplayed another Frenchman Arnaud Clement in 4 sets. We think that more experienced Schuettler has one of his last chances to make a good result here and he should take the advantage of fast surface. Anything above 2.1 can be taken here.