IT IS not just the men’s draw at Wimbledon that is wide open.
For the first time in years, the favourite is a 4/1 shot – and that is Petra Kvitova, who has only played two tournaments since her return from six months out.
Wimbledon betting tips for Thursday
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Although most neutrals will be hoping for a win for Kvitova, who was stabbed in a burglary at her house seven months ago, we fear it may be too soon for the Czech.
Instead, we like the look of a familiar name.
Venus Williams may be 37 but she is one of only two players in the draw to have a Wimbledon title in her locker. (The other is Kvitova.)
She made the semi-finals here last year and she reached the final of the Australian Open at the start of the year.
WIMBLEDON TIPS: WHO SHOULD I BACK IN THE MEN’S DRAW?
She has beaten fancied Johanna Konta, Svetlana Kuznetsova and Angelique Kerber in recent months, proving she can still mix it with the big beasts of ladies tennis.
The draw is open and Venus should be able to breeze through to the second week.
And at 10/1 she offers excellent value for the outright title.
Britain has its first genuine title shot since Jo Durie, with Konta, who made the semi-finals in Eastbourne, also at 10/1.
But better value is the American Coco Vandeweghe.
WIMBLEDON TIPS: INSIDE THE BETTING SYSTEM THE PROS USE
She thrashed Konta in Birmingham and is an excellent grass player. She also beat Kerber, the World No1, in straight sets in the Australian Open and her heart-on-the-sleeve style of tennis is always good to watch.
At 16/1, she definitely appeals.
We also like Elina Svitolina, who at 20/1 is too long.
The Ukrainian is the fourth seed but recent injury niggles have pushed out her price.
Back her each way then send a care package of Deep Heat over to her boyfriend Reece Topley’s house.
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