The draw for the tennis event of the 2008 Olympic Games has just been made. Here are a few short thoughts on the men's bracket - I'll look at the women's side tomorrow.

Forget his potential revenge match in the third round against Ivo Karlovic or Tomas Berdych for a minute, will Roger Federer escape round one? Dmitry Tursunov is hardly a pushover and, based on Federer's current form, his fans have to be worried. But I wouldn't fear the worst. As has been documented to death, playing at the Olympics tends to operate differently than playing on the normal tour.

I think Federer is one of the players who will benefit most from this change in environment. After three forgettable hard court matches in Toronto and Cincinnati, the Swiss master could certainly use some inspiration. Playing for his country may be just the tonic he needs.

One player that I have a good feeling about in the top quarter is James Blake, who should benefit from a wealth of Davis Cup experience. He's had a maddening season so far - no tournament wins, but plenty of deep runs. I think something similar will happen here at the Olympics.

The Chinese sacrificial lambs (men) were unlucky to draw two top-ranked opponents in the opening round. Peng Sun gets Fernando Gonzalez, who's not only a great player but is also a former Olympic gold medalist. In the bottom half of the draw, Shaoxuan Zeng, ranked 598 in the world, faces David Nalbandian, seeded seventh. If you thought Frank Dancevic's upset over Nalbandian in the first round of Wimbledon was a shocker, this one could short out your internet connection!

The most entertaining men's first rounder might be Gael Monfils vs. Nicolas Almagro. This could have been a great match if it were played on clay as both did well at this year's French Open, but even on a hard court, these two ball-bashers should excite those in attendance. Big swings, vocal emotions - nothing will be held back.