Nishikori set for maiden Grand Slam win in US Open final

For the first time since 2003 the men’s US Open final will feature none of Roger Federer, Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

Kei Nishikori and Marin Cilic have the rare chance to share a Grand Slam tournament final without the vast shadow of the “Big Four” looming over them, but which will handle the pressure of a first major final better to prevail?

Here’s our best bets:

Nishikori to win – 4/5

The Japanese 24-year-old has won on each of the last three occasions he’s faced Cilic as well as in both of their meetings this year.

In total, Nishikori holds a 5-2 head-to-head advantage over the Croatian and has beaten the big-serving star four times on hard courts.

Nishikori to win 3-2 – 9/2

If you fancy chasing a slightly longer priced Nishikori win, back him to prevail in a five-set thriller.

The last time these two met in this tournament it went the distance and only three of their seven career meetings have been settled in straight sets. Even on their route to the final the pair have had to endure full-length matches three times combined.

With neither player having the experience of a Grand Slam final to fall back on, expect nerves to play a part in this being a back-and-forth affair.

Cilic to be first to serve to love – 5/6

Cilic’s big-serve is clearly a major weapon and his love of serving aces means he could quite easily serve out a game to love here.

Only two players have hit more aces in the tournament than the 25-year-old, who is a great price to blast past Nishikori without conceding a point.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

Fancy a flutter? Sign up today to claim up to £100 in free bets.