The 2008 season approaches...

All eyes on Federer
Federer's domination over the past four years has been unprecedented, winning 11 of 16 Grand Slams. There is no clear indication that there will be a dramatic reverse. However there could be more surprising defeats in the Masters Series and a rejuvenated Nadal and Djokovic could prove significant threats. If the domination continues then 2008 could be the year he surpasses Sampras record 14 GS haul, or the year in which he clinches the Grand Slam as Laver had done, or even the Golden Slam. Time will tell. More immediately Fed will be buoyed by news that the Australian Open is now the second fastest Grand Slam (only behind the US Open).

Elsewhere, Nadal's domination of clay should continue as injury fears that emerged towards the end of 2007 from the Nadal camp have been dismissed by the Nadal camp. How will he fare on the hard-courts? Djokovic emerged as the "Prince of Hard Courts" in 2007, can he replicate if not build on that success in '08. And how will the other young guns Gasquet and Murray fare? Looking at the next generation of teen sensations, Gulbis had an impressive run in the US Open, Cilic beat Davydenko twice, and Donald Young is America's next great hope, will they now take that next big step.

Davydenko's year started to collapse towards the end of 2007, a top 5 player will he be able to get it all together again? Hewitt now under the wings of Tony Roche may have a fruitful year, Adelaide could prove a good indication, but he will surely not challenge for the Grand Slams again. While Roddick who dropped out of the top 5, may find his position in the top 10 in danger. Let us not forget about Nalbandian, winning consecutive Masters Series titles, and winning the Copa Argentina in the off-season, can he continue that late season surge into the new year...

Doubles Revolution
The doubles landscape will look very different in 2008 as long established teams split up and new partnerships are forged.

Ullyett & Bjorkman
Mirnyi & Murray
Bhupathi & Knowles
Damm & Vizner
Hanley & Paes
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Bryan & Bryan
Aspelin & Knowle
Clement & Llodra
Erlich & Ram
Nestor & Zimonjic

The Bryans may be favourite to hold onto top spot, but we have seen there is plenty of room for others to win the Grand Slams. Nestor and Zimonjic look like a very formidable partnership. Knowle and Aspelin had a fantastic year this season, winning their maiden Grand Slam and Masters Cup finalists, but it will be seen whether they can continue that upward trend. One new name among those elite 18 players is Jamie Murray, elder brother of Andy he will partner with Max Mirnyi.