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Australian Open: Confident Novak Djokovic set to battle Andy Murray for title

Speed News Desk | Updated on: 14 February 2017, 5:32 IST

Novak Djokovic will aim to clinch his 6th Australian Open and 11th overall singles major on Sunday, 31 January, when he takes on Scotland's Andy Murray in the men's singles final in Melbourne.

Djokovic, who has won three of the last four majors, is in inspired form at the moment. For one, he had little trouble in getting past Roger Federer in the semi-final of the tournament.

The World no 1, who is also the defending champion at Melbourne, had an extra day's rest following the win, and goes into the match having won 10 of the last 11 matches against Murray.

Djokovic, Murray expecting a close final

"I'm expecting a battle with Andy, as it always is. Very physically demanding match. Lots of rallies, exchanges. It's no secret we know how we play against each other," Djokovic told reporters on Saturday.

"It's two games that are very much alike, so it's basically who's going to outplay who from the baseline," he added.

Murray, who was involved in a marathon five-setter against Milos Raonic in the semis, goes into the match as the underdog. He, however, has vowed to put his best foot forward against the in-form Serb.

"I have a very good shot on Sunday if I play my best tennis. I need to do it for long enough to have a chance. I'm aware of that. I don't think many people are expecting me to win on Sunday. I have to just believe in myself, have a solid game plan, and hopefully execute it and play well," he said.

"It's one tennis match. Doesn't matter what's happened in the past really. It's about what happens on Sunday. There's no reason it's not possible for me to win," Murray added.

The statistics all point to a victory for Djokovic, but Murray will hope to take inspiration from Angelique Kerber's stunning win over Serena Williams on Saturday, and pull off another major upset in Melbourne.

Novak Djokovic-Andy Murray head-to-head

Overall: Djokovic 21-9 Murray

At majors: Djokovic 6-2 Murray

First published: 30 January 2016, 6:26 IST