Andy Roddick to Clash with Tomas Berdych at the AIG Japan Open Semis

Tokyo, Japan – The last time the blockbuster matchup of online tennis betting was as they collided in the R16 of the 2007 US Open. The much-anticipated match was a complete and utter disappointment that ended up in a push in the gambling markets, because Tomas Berdych retired in the second set, trailing 5-7, 0-2, on the dubious pretext of illness (maybe that is an unfair claim but he really seemed to give up after playing a sensational first set and still lost it). Toning down the hype: once again, their matchup features in the online tennis betting market.

Tennis Betting Line: Tomas Berdych +175 Andy Roddick -225

Match Time: 05:00 AM Eastern Time Saturday October 4, 2008

Head-to-Head Analysis: Roddick leads the head-to-head series 2-1 officially. However, discounting the last match that Berdych retired from, they are tied 1-1 lifetime.

Tennis Betting Analysis: The truth of the matter is that this is a great match on the cards at the AIG Japan Open but since one never knows with Berdych it could live up to expectations or fall miserably flat.

Berdych (+175) When he is on, he is devastatingly clinical in dispatching his opponent but when he is off he is prone to mental implosions and fades away from whence he came from quickly. Therefore, in theory, there is value in Berdych’s underdog odds but in reality, it depends on which Berdych comes to play tomorrow.

So far, Berdych has had a great tournament. He beat Roko Karanusic 6-3, 6-4 in the second round, and topped Tommy Robredo 7-6(6), 6-2. In the quarters, he was near perfect against Fernando Gonzalez, beating the Chilean 6-0, 6-4. In the last match, Berdych dictated play, pounded from both wings and served almost flawlessly. The very same game will be needed against Roddick.

Roddick (-225) Roddick is coming off a title victory in Beijing and he has not looked as good as he does now all season long. However, as good as Roddick is he has his limitations – the same limitations that have featured throughout his career. Roddick is a player that lives and dies by his serve. He has improved aspects of his game but a great mover on court he will never be – a weakness that could be exploited by a player like Berdych.

Tennis Betting Verdict: Berdych is overall the better and more complete player so the outcome depends more on how he plays than how Roddick does. If Berdych appears in body and not in spirit then Roddick would have the match in the bag. However, if an inspired Berdych shows up it is his for the taking. Which Berdych steps out on court tomorrow is anyone’s guess. I will hope for the latter and give him the nod.

Tennis Betting Picks: Berdych in straight sets.

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Nila Amerova is a freelance sports writer and regular contributor to the BetUS.com Locker Room