ATP London Race (27 Oct 14): Murray Surges, Federer Could Take The No. 1 Lead From Djokovic

A month ago Andy Murray’s London qualification was on perilous ground. However, after winning three titles in five events, including a thrilling win yesterday over Tommy Robredo in Valencia, Murray is now a solid No. 5 in the latest ATP Race standings.

“The others guys behind me will need to play extremely well in Paris to knock me out, so I’ve done everything I could,” Murray said yesterday.

With Rafael Nadal out, Murray, Kei Nishiori and Tomas Berdych appear to relatively safe in their qualification bids. So that leaves one spot among David Ferrer, Grigor Dimitrov and Milos Raonic this week in Paris. Ferrer and Roanic are neck and neck so as long as the Spaniard stays even with Milos he’ll get in. But Dimitrov must make at least the semifinals.

The No. 1 Race also heats up with Roger Federer in position to pass Novak Djokovic. Federer will have to at least make the finals to have a chance at entering London as the leader.

“It would be very special to reclaim No. 1,” said Federer. “World No. 1 is what it’s all about in our game. With the year I have had and the amount of finals I have played, the level of tennis I have played, I am pleased to see that I have a shot. But having a shot and being there is two separate things. I am sure that Novak is going to come in very motivated, just after having a baby. I am very happy for him. There are clearly interesting weeks ahead.”

ATP Race to London Standings as of October 27, 2014
1 Novak Djokovic 9,010*
2 Roger Federer 8,520*
3 Rafael Nadal 6,835 (W/D)
4 Stan Wawrinka 4,805*
5 Andy Murray 4,295
6 Kei Nishikori 4,265
7 Marin Cilic 4,150+
8 Tomas Berdych 4,105
9 David Ferrer 3,865

10 Milos Raonic 3,840
11 Grigor Dimitrov 3,555

* = clinched London berth; + = Grand Slam champion wildcard London berth

Race Points This Week in Basel/Valencia
W 1,000
F 600
SF 360
QF 180
R16 90
R32 45
R48 10