Novak Djokovic, 39, endured a 5‑hour, 15‑minute battle against Felix Auger‑Aliassime before reaching the semi‑finals, while Jannik Sinner entered the match injury‑free and undefeated in sets after a five‑set first‑round comeback. The two faced each other last year, with Sinner prevailing in straight sets despite an elbow injury. Djokovic’s calf tweak forced a medical timeout, and he fought until almost 11pm to win the quarter‑final.

Sinner’s serve has sharpened: 97 aces to 16 double faults, and an 84% win rate on first‑serve points against Jan‑Lennard Struff. Djokovic saved 16 of 18 break points in the Melbourne semi‑finals, and his break‑point conversion remains a critical edge. The grass surface, described by former British number one Tim Henman as the least physically demanding, still tests endurance, especially for a 39‑year‑old.

For Djokovic, a win would mark his 25th Grand Slam title, surpassing Margaret Court and cementing his place in history. Sinner’s performance signals a full‑blown season, with a 6‑5 head‑to‑head advantage over Djokovic and a growing confidence on hard courts. The outcome will shape the final’s narrative and influence rankings heading into the next season.