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Stefan Tonev
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Djokovic blows away Paul to reach 10th final in Melbourne
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The Serb will meet Greek Tsitsipas for the trophy

Novak Djokovic made 39 unforced errors but proved too strong for American first-time semi-finalists Tommy Paul on Friday as the winner of 21 Grand Slam titles cruised into his 10th Australian Open with a comfortable 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 win.

The Serb, reaching a Grand Slam final for the 33th time, will now play Stefanos Tsitsipas, who secured a place in the Sunday’s final after beating Russian Karen Khachanov.

Greece’s Tsitsipas lost to 35-year-old Djokovic in the 2021 French Open final and now has the opportunity to avenge that loss in his first appearance in the Australian Open showpiece.

But to lift the trophy on Sunday, he must become the first player to beat the Serbian at Melbourne Park since 2018.

Djokovic, who beat Paul to set a new landmark of 27 consecutive wins, is aiming for a record-extending 10th title which would equal Rafael Nadal’s tally of 22 major men’s titles.

“It means everything at this stage of my career. I need that energy [from the fans] and I’m really thankful that I have enough gas in my legs to play at this level on one of the greatest tennis courts in the world,” Djokovic said.

“It’s great, and perfect and 100%. Yeah – we’ll say against Stefanos in two days! Of course, you are not as fresh as at the beginning of the tournament, but we put in a lot of of hours in the off season. I know what’s expected and I have been in so many positions in my career.

“It’s a great battle, with yourself and the opponent. Long rallies and you could feel the heavy legs in the first set but I was fortunate to hold my nerves. After that I was swinging through the ball more and I am just pleased to get through another final.”