AS the COVID-19 pandemic continues, Draft Central is extending the fantasy tennis coverage throughout the ATP and WTA seasons to simulate tournaments and see just how they might have gone down. The next ATP instalment is the Houston Open. WITH some big names, such as Andy Murray and Cristian Garin set to take the court for the Houston Open expect plenty of high quality action and close encounters.

Favourite:

Cristian Garin (CHILE)

The Chilean tennis player is in a strong position ahead of the fantasy tournament and heads in as the favourite for the Houston Open. At just 23, Garin is a classy player that has proven his talents, competing with the best in the world and holding his own on more than one occasion. He is a powerful force on clay and will have to leave no stone unturned when coming up against the highly talented Andy Murray. Ranked 17th Garin is no easy beat, with his court coverage and clever hitting just a couple key elements in his game play. The reigning title winner will be wanting to make it back to back championships and really stamp his authority as the Houston Open star.

Contenders:

Andy Murray (GREAT BRITAIN)

Set to come up against favourite Cristian Garin in the opening round of action, Murray will have to leave nothing to chance if he is to make a real splash in the tournament. If the Englishman can get over the line it will go a long way in helping to shape his shot at the title and almost put him in prime position. Although towards the twilight of his career, there is no arguing that Murray has the artillery to do damage with his strong serve, precise shot play and dynamic footwork to force himself to the ball. Although he is currently ranked 101st in the world thanks to his battle with ongoing injuries, Murray is one of the classiest players on court, able to think his way out of trouble and muster up the right shot at the right time.

Karen Khachanov (RUSSIA)

The Russian tennis sensation is one to watch heading into the tournament given his strength on the clay court. The world number 15 is a cool customer when on court able to play his shots with ease and precision. After turning pro in 2013 the 23-year-old has not looked back winning his fair share of titles and making a name for himself. Khachanov did not feature in the 2019 Houston Open and will be desperate to make an impact this year and claim another trophy after going through a bit of a dry spell when it comes to silverware.

Casper Ruud:

Ruud showcased his class last year making it all the way to the end but falling agonisingly short against Garin in the final. The Norway product cannot be dismissed as a real contender for the trophy playing on his preferred clay surface and recent success on it. At just 21, he still has plenty of room to grow but will be hoping to continue his hot form coming off victory at Buenos Aires where he won his maiden title earlier this year.

Roughie:

Laslo Djere (SERBIA)

The young Serbian will be hoping to make his way up the ranks at the Houston Open and put his name on the map for years to come. 2020 has been a relatively even year for the 24-year old winning five and losing five matches and will be searching for that consistency heading into the Open. Reaching as high as 27 in the rankings, Djere will be keen to once again recapture that strong form. On his preferred clay surface expect the Serbian to come out all guns blazing with his ability to dish up aces.

Dark horse:

John Millman (AUSTRALIA)

The Australian fan favourite is arguably one of the most hard working players to take the court. His commitment and durability are just a couple of key elements to his game play and while he may not whip out all the fancy moves it is his desperation and go-get it mindset that makes him such a challenging opponent. Sitting at 46 in the rankings Millman could be considered as an outside chance but has proven more than once that he is the ability to mix it with the best pushing the likes of Roger Federer to a mammoth five sets at the Australian Open, something he will draw a lot of confidence from heading into the tournament. Although the 30-year-old is yet to win a title it is not fair to count him out given his unpredictability and skill to create something out of nothing.