Novak Djokovic is 6/4 in tennis betting odds to claim a third successive Australian Open title after making a positive start to 2017.

The Serbian came through a dramatic three-set victory over world number one Andy Murray in the Qatar Open final on Saturday.

He is now the favourite to lift a seventh crown in Melbourne – and sixth in the last seven years – having beaten Murray in the last two finals.

Djokovic is focused on wrestling back that number one slot from Murray in what looks like being a fascinating contest ahead.

He said: "We both felt like if every match we are going to play against each other is going to be this way this season, we are going to have a fun time.

"This was the best scenario I could ask for at the beginning of the season, playing all five matches in this tournament and then three hours against the number one of the world, biggest rival, and winning in a thrilling marathon match.

"It is something that definitely can serve as a positive incentive for what's coming up in Australia."

Murray, guaranteed to be number one seed, believes there is more to come from him in 2017. The Scot, beaten in five finals Down Under, is 7/4 to stop being the bridesmaid.

He said: “Physically it was a good test to start the year and I did good there. Obviously I am disappointed not to win but I played pretty good the last couple of the matches.

"My body feels all right just now, so that's positive. It was a little bit sore earlier in the week after the first couple of the matches but I felt better each day and I think it is positive.

"I still think there are things I can do better because I wasn't that clinical on break points this week, which maybe comes with playing a few more matches.”

It was a first defeat for Murray following a remarkable run since losing to Juan Martin del Potro when playing for Great Britain in the semi-final of the Davis Cup in September.

The 29-year-old added: "I still think I have a chance of winning the Australian Open. I don't think that changes."

Rafael Nadal, who sole Australian Open came in 2009, is the 12/1 third favourite alongside 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka with Milos Raonic at 17/1.

 

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