Men’s final is set. We have quite the tantalizing match between two superstars of the sport. On one side, we have seven-time Australian Open champion, Novak Djokovic. On the other side, Dominic Thiem, seeking his maiden Grand Slam, and tired of playing second fiddle to Nadal, Djokovic and Federer.

Djokovic’s road to the final:

He’s had no trouble reaching the final of a tournament he dominates year in and year out. This year he lost only one set on the way to the final. He had no problem with either #32 Raonic or #14 Shwartzman. In the semis he got past a hurt Roger Federer. It wouldn’t have mattered if Federer was at full strength though, Djokovic owns these Australian Open courts. He will be the more rested player heading into this final.

Thiem’s road to the final:

Unlike Djokovic’s road to the final, Thiem has had to fight and earn his ticket to the final the hard way. He’s played seven tie breaks on his way to the final, and has had to contend with Rafa Nadal and Alex Zverev, both of whom he beat in four long a and tough sets. Lucky for Theim is the fact that he’s got youth and fitness on his side. How much will all these exhausting matches impact his performance in the final? We’ll see soon.

Predictions:

Thiem will come out swinging like he always does. He will attempt to hit through the court and keep Djokovic off balance. Djokovic will get everything back, and it will take a monumental effort from Thiem to win a point. Thiem would have to serve perfectly and be clinical with both his backhand and forehand. This will be too much to ask from Thiem. Djkokovic is just too good on these courts. Novak will win his 8^th Australian Open in four sets.