Bodog Beat

Rafael Nadal dropped only four games on his way to the third round. (AI Wire photo)

If Rafael Nadal is going to beat Roger Federer in the Australian Open final he will need to preserve his energy and build as much confidence as possible.

Of course, he and Federer both have several matches to win before that likely meeting between the top two men’s players on the ATP tour.

No. 2 Nadal did his part on Wednesday in Melbourne, easing into the third round on the strength of a 6-0, 6-2, 6-2 win over Frenchman Florent Serra at Rod Laver Arena.

Nadal was a -5000 favorite on the moneyline (meaning a winning tennis bet of $5,000 was required to win $100). He was the biggest name in action in the men’s draw during the day matches Down Under.

On the women’s side, defending champion Serena Williams, No. 7 seed, swept Meng Yuan of China, 6-3, 6-1. Williams was a -6000 favorite. No. 3 seed Jelena Jankovic beat Edina Gallovits, 6-2, 7-5, and paid -1400.

For an earlier Australian Open report, read the Beat’s account of Justine Henin’s second-round win.

And be sure to get Australian Open match betting odds for the men’s and women’s draws.