How Djokovic beat Murray

1. Djokovic beats Murray 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (7-4) 6-3 6-0
2. World number one wins fifth Australian Open, eighth Grand Slam
3. Djokovic has won all three Australian Open finals against Murray
4. Murray lost 2010 Australian Open final against Roger Federer
5. Get involved: #bbctennis on Twitter, 81111 on text

And that's the end of the 2015 Australian Open. It was the tournament where Andy Murray proved he is capable of reaching the heights of old after an iffy 12 months, but in the last few hours we've also learned he has to improve if he is to compete on such grand stages with the greats.

Djokovic is enjoying that familiar feeling of being an Australian Open champion and, with eight Grand Slams in the bag, can rightly claim to be one of the best players there has ever been.

Thanks, as always, for joining us and contributing. If you missed any of the action there are highlights and winning moments to watch. Bye for now, until we return on 6 March for Davis Cup action when Britain take on the USA in Glasgow.

Before you forget about the Australian Open for another year, make sure you have a read of these three corking stories from Melbourne.

Andy Murray's fiancee Kim Sears wears a 'Parental Advisory: Explicit Content' T-shirt to the men's singles final.

Serena Williams says vomiting during the final helped her win a sixth women's singles title.

Former world number one Martina Hingis wins her first Grand Slam title since coming out of retirement.

BBC

Australian Open tweet Andy Murray's thoughts on the defeat: "I'm frustrated at myself to let that [Djokovic injury] bother me. To me the reason why I lost that match was not a physical reason because I feel fine now."

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Diepriye Josiah: Spectacular collapse from Andy losing 12 of the last 13 games. Can't put a positive spin on this. At least he's still smiling.

James Stevenson: Andy Murray will look back and won't be pleased with his attitude at the end. But he'll want to rectify that and I'm sure he will.

Jelena Djokovic

Novak Djokovic's wife Jelena posts a picture on Twitter of their baby son Stefan watching the moment his daddy collected the trophy.

All together now. Aaaaah...

Stat attack

• Murray's defeat means no Briton has won the men's singles since Fred Perry in 1934
• Murray has lost his last six matches against the player ranked number one in the world
• Murray has won two and lost six of his Grand Slam finals

Stat attack

• Djokovic wins his eighth Grand Slam title to move into equal eighth place on the all-time list, alongside Andre Agassi, Jimmy Connors, Ivan Lendl, Fred Perry and Ken Rosewall.
• Djokovic now has a 8-7 win-loss record in his 15 Grand Slam finals.
• Djokovic is the 17th number one seed to win the Australian Open.

'He needs a good, hard look in the mirror'

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

EPA

"If Murray wants to beat these guys he has to learn from this. He has won an Olympic gold medal, Wimbledon and the US Open and he is a seriously good player, but if he is to become a great player he has to fix this element.

"He needs a good, hard look in the mirror and get his head together, but this loss is not the end of the world. It's not the worst thing for Murray to be almost embarrassed by the performance. Hopefully he will learn from it."

'Andy will feel he let everyone down'

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Andy Murray has to look at it and say 'I can't do this again' and see what he did wrong. He needs to find a balance between attacking and defending.

"No one is going to be more disappointed than him. We have all been there as professional players where you sit there and say 'what did I do wrong?'. Andy will feel he let everyone down but you learn from it. He has great physical fitness and he had a great tournament up to an hour ago."

Britain's 81-year wait for an Australian Open champion extends to another year...

But, on the bright side, Murray is the only Britain to reach four Australian Opens with Fred Perry only managing two. Every cloud...

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Christopher Wood: A very moving speech from Andy, first two sets were very high quality and then exhaustion took over.

Liz Henwood: A valiant effort but Djokovic just too good. Feeling very positive about Andy Murray's form for the rest of the season though.

George Loggie: What a great pity! Andy Murray went walkabout in the third set and that's when he lost the match. All credit to Djokovic.

'Murray melted down, he absolutely collapsed'

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

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"Novak Djokovic's intensity as world number one is a brilliant skill in itself. We have seen how good Djokovic is and how little he gives his opponent.

"Things started snowballing for Andy Murray once he lost concentration then, in the fourth set, everything went against him. I feel sorry for him.

"He has not put up a great fight. He melted down - he absolutely collapsed. I wouldn't want to put a rose-tinted outlook on it - he melted down and will be disappointed. He hasn't been in this situation too many times and it became too much for him."

Watch Djokovic's winning shot

Andy Murray will not want to watch the winning moment again - but you might want to. Luckily you can.

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Djokovic takes his trophy towards the gaggle of photographers who want a picture of the Australian Open champion giving the trophy a big smooch. Who knows where Andy Murray is. Will he ever have his day in the Melbourne sun?

John Lloyd

1977 Australian Open runner-up on BBC One

"Andy Murray has had some injury problems, but now he is back in the finals of Grand Slams. There have been some good things about these two weeks for him but he has got to work on the mental side - that was obvious here.

"He has to go back to positive things and he can win a Slam this year. If he can vent and get rid of it, that's fine.

"But today he let it drag on for two and three games. By the time he got his mind back, it was game over."

"They tolerate a lot of things from me, on and off the court and put up with a lot from me," says Djokovic as he looks towards his camp.

"Without my family and closest people this wouldn't be possible and I thank you for supporting me. Last but not least, the fans. A record 733,000 - it's been a record-breaking year in terms of the fans coming to this Australian Open and it's truly one of the most remarkable sport events around the world and I'm honoured to be standing here as a champion for a fifth time and be among an elite group of players."

Player reaction

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"I would like to congratulate you and Kim on your engagement and I wish you a wonderful wedding and many kids," says Novak Djokovic. Kim Sears is giggling, but Murray does not react. It's as if Djokovic has told him he's stolen his last chocolate biscuit.

For the fifth time Djokovic steps up to collect the big prize at the Australian Open and the master of ceremonies reminds us that this is the Serb's first major as a father. Djokovic lifts the trophy up and kisses it, before cradling it in his arms.

Player reaction

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Andy Murray, who reached the final just 16 months after having back surgery: "I'd like to thank my team up there - it has been a tough year. I'm closer than I was a few months ago and I'll keep working hard to get there.

"I'll try to come back next year and have a slightly different outcome in the final."

Player reaction

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Beaten finalist Andy Murray, who has been runner-up four times: "Firstly I would like to congratulate Novak on his fifth Australian Open - it is a fantastic record and thoroughly deserved.

"I had amazing support here and it is probably my most consistent Grand Slam throughout my career but just haven't been able to win."

Murray collapsed like a deck of cards, with Djokovic winning 12 of the last 13 games of the match. The Serb looked down and out at the beginning of the third set, his knees were knocking, his shoulders were slumped, but the British number let the opportunity slip. The sponsors are still chatting, a motionless Murray stares into the middle-distance...

Match statistics

BBC Sport

After Djokovic shakes hands with coach Boris Becker, a handful of Rod Laver Arena staff scurry onto court, knocking up a hastily-erected stage.

Bruce McAverney, the master of ceremonies, steps on to stage with a microphone in hand to introduce the presentation party which includes Aussie legend Roy Emerson.

Roy might be having a word in Djokovic's ear in a minute or two, telling him that's he won this thing enough times now...

A cheerless Murray is standing at the net by Djokovic's side, his mind probably whirring with ifs, buts and maybes. He could have won it, but he didn't. The sponsors have their turn under the spotlight. The British number one would prefer to be anywhere else right now.

There we are then, Djokovic becomes the second man in history to win five or more Australian Open titles. One more title at Melbourne Park and the magnificent Serb will be level with all-time leader Roy Emerson. It's only a matter of time, surely?

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Djokovic raises his arms and blows a kiss towards his camp before he meets Murray at the net. The champion then throws his racquet into the crowd, while Murray smashes his on the ground. That's the difference between winning and losing, I guess.

Game, set and match - Djokovic

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All over! Andy Murray looks sapped of both mental and physical energy. Another unforced backhand error hands over two Championship points to Novak Djokovic.

The crowd bristle before turning down the volume as Djokovic tosses up for victory. Net. That's an anti-climax.

A quiet hush as he tries again, but he goes long after a brief rally to hand Murray hope. But it is brief hope - Murray goes into the net and Rod Laver Arena rises to acclaim the new (but very familiar) champion.

Here we go then. Novak Djokovic is serving for a fifth Australian Open title...

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Andy Murray has just melted down. I've not seen anyone melt down like this for a long time."

Reuters

Never mind roast beef and vegetables, Andy Murray could be force-fed a bagel smothered in Djokovic magic.

Djokovic has oodles of time to drill a forehand winner beyond Murray. The Serb cantering, only a few more hurdles to negotiate and the title will be his. Murray scuffs a backhand into the tramlines.

Murray, shoulders hunched, looks like a broken man. Another backhand error hands two break points to Djokovic, who snaffles that quickly as a Murray forehand goes long.

Hingis wins Grand Slam

Like a heart-warming comeback story? Then you'll love this one.

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Former world number one Martina Hingis has won her first Grand Slam title since coming out of retirement for a second time in 2013.

The 34-year-old combined with Leander Paes of India to win the Australian Open mixed doubles, beating Kristina Mladenovic of France and Daniel Nestor of Canada 6-4, 6-3.

"Who would have thought it?" Switzerland's Hingis said. "It's more than I could ever dream of."

Come on Andy, let's see some fight. Half of Great Britain is willing to sacrifice their Sunday roast dinners to see this going to a fifth set.

And he's showing some! Djokovic opens up a commanding 40-15 lead, before allowing Murray to claw back to deuce with a poor drop shot that the Scot punishes. The Serb taps himself on the forehead.

That little slap does the trick, however, the Serb's splendid second serve working wonders again. And he steps in from the baseline to send a routine forehand fizzing past the Briton. Two games from victory...

The Murray fans among you may not want to watch it, but third set highlights are available at the top of this page if you want a gander.

British women's number one Heather Watson says on Twitter: "Off to Fed Cup with the ladies so will be on the live scores. At this pace the Australian Open final will still be on when we get there."

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

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"I would love to get some footage of Bjorn Borg or Roger Federer and sit Andy Murray down in front of it and say 'this is how you keep yourself composed in these type of matches'."

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Joshua Parkinson: #AndyMurray. His head's not just gone, it's away and starting a new life in Spain, starting a small business serving paella.

Nick Armfield: How does Novak do that? Always finding new gears. Unstoppable. Although it helps when Murray has a love affair with the net.

Steve U: Why has no coach ever addressed the Murray forehand? It's a shot that lets him down constantly when he needs it most.

Double break for Djokovic

Djokovic has a steely expression etched across his face. The sort of expression that says 'I'm in control now and I know it'.

The Serb is helped by this Murray meltdown. The Scot smashes a forehand into the net at 40-15, gifting two break points to his opponent. And he can only watch a Djokovic forehand whizz past his eye-line for the game.

Djokovic, eyeballs popping, screams towards his box. Murray gives another sarcastic smile of resignation...

Most people are smiling all around the Rod Laver Arena. But not Andy Murray. The Briton loses his eighth game in the last nine as Djokovic finds an extra gear.

Match stats after three sets

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Djokovic breaks

Hmmm. The dreaded commentator's curse strikes. Andy Murray does not seem to have cleared his mind after that post-third set tantrum.

A poor service game from the British number one is sweet music to Djokovic's ears. The Serb hits the right notes, pouncing on Murray errors with a sweeping forehand winner for a break point at 40-30.

Djokovic completes the job at the first opportunity. Time for Murray to dig deep. Both mentally and physically.

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Andy Murray has to win the next two sets and it's extraordinary the ebbs and flows of this match. It's so hard to be critical of these guys, but Andy has not been at this level for a year so to expect him to be at this level of intensity is difficult.

"When he gets too upset with himself, will he have a let down? I'm frustrated because you see how talented Andy is. If he could just hone it all in then this match could be the other way around."

Murray is laughing. I repeat, Murray is laughing. But I suspect it is an ironic chuckle rather than delight at how he played in that third set.

Cheers Aimee, Jonathan Jurejko here again. I've got a 100% record - one set, one Murray win. Can the Briton do the magic again under my watch and take this to a fifth? Let's find out...

Australian Open statement

Australian Open officials have released a statement after the earlier protests. It says: "Two people have been arrested after a court invasion during the second set of the men's final. Security responded immediately. Both were quickly removed with minimal disruption to play."

Djokovic wins third set

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Murray needs to find zen-like calm if he is to trouble Djokovic in this game because the red mist is clouding his judgement. At 15-15, momentum could go either way but Djokovic is bossing it from the baseline and Murray slaps a forehand into the tape, his 12th unforced error of the set.

Murray, running across the baseline, stretching at a forehand which he biffs into the net. Djokovic can smell the third-set finishing line approaching. The Serb serves to the wings, Murray flaps at a return. Boris Becker is on his feet. Two sets or out for Murray.

Djokovic breaks

Murray's feet not quite moving in unison as he drags a backhand into the tramlines. 0-15. Murray misses a forehand, he's going through one of his dips and directs verbal arrows towards his camp. "So unhelpful," he yells. Djokovic pounces on a tired Murray volley, unleashing an irretrievable crosscourt volley. Three break points. Yikes.

Djokovic long on the return which gifts Murray a point, but it's a temporary reprieve as he coughs up a double fault. Murray has lost his cool. Has he lost the set?

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Activetots: This is like watching a Rocky Balboa fight.

A seventh ace of the match from Djokovic for 15-15. An eighth ace of the match from Djokovic 30-15. But he fails to get his first serve on target on the next point and Murray gobbles up the short second serve, setting himself up for a slam dunk of an overhead. 30-30. Nail-biting stuff.

More tension as the pair absorb shots from the baseline before Murray creeps inside the court and bashes away a down-the-line-forehand for a break point - his 11th of the match.

Djokovic with the drop volley... Murray racing towards the net like a greyhound out of the traps... he has speed but no precision and is unable to direct the volley over the tape, momentum taking him towards Djokovic's side of the court. The world number one out of jail and he lifts his arm, urging the crowd to raise the volume. Djokovic pulls through, Murray ending matters with a slapped return into the tape.

AP

At 15-0, Murray pulls Djokovic this way and that on the baseline, forcing the Serb to dance to his tune. A super-duper Murray forehand kisses the baseline and Djokovic must produce something special to break the Scot from here. Murray the master marksman, solid serving from the Briton, ending with a touch of razzle-dazzle, a whirring ace.

Andy Murray's brother Jamie Murray writes on Twitter: "Two hours 30 minutes for two sets. These guys are a different breed. Who can continue to keep this level longest?"

David Law

BBC Radio 5 live commentator

"These two are freaks of nature. I'm exhausted after talking quickly about just one of those sets. Imagine two hours 47 minutes of running, lunging."

AP

Djokovic experiencing a revival of sorts. He seemed down and out at 2-0 down, but having fought back to level he's producing some exquisite shots again. A marvellous forehand down the line moves him 30-0 up, but Murray drags himself to 30-30. It's like watching a pair of giraffes fighting in the wild; swinging at each other until one, eventually, hopefully, ungracefully falls. Djokovic nips ahead... On the next point, he sends Murray into the darkest corner of the baseline and Murray can't loop his forehand on target. Three straight games for the top seed.

Two-time Olympic swimming gold medallist Becky Adlington on Twitter: "Ah what a game of tennis this is. Pure class from both guys."

Catch up - tie-break highlights

Missed the drama of the second set tie-break? Shame on you. Luckily you can watch every second again. Go to the 'Highlights' tab on this page to relive the excitement.

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"How frustrating for Andy Murray and he is livid with himself."

Djokovic breaks back

Djokovic attacking the Murray second serve and his reward is a crosscourt winning return for the opening point. Both players sweating like racehorses, which isn't much of a surprise as they're a smidgeon short of the three-hour mark. Trouble for Murray at 0-30, but he hauls himself back into contention as Djokovic goes long on the next return. The Murray backhand is his foe as he slaps it into the net, presenting Djokovic with two break back points.

Plenty of pop on the Murray serve as it zips for an ace. One break point saved. Can he save the other? Deary me, no. He swings wildly on the forehand and we're level again.

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James Pickard: Come on Murray. He's back in it now. Nearly as much suspense as London 2012 final. This is Grand Slam tennis at its best.

Ben Krizan: Hands down the best match of tennis I have watched, completely different Murray from last season.

Dan Tipp: Fallen off edge of seat. Cancel rest of morning - kids' homework will have to wait.

Djokovic pulls Murray towards the tape and the Scot falters, an iffy forehand and into the net she goes. A collective groan from the spectators. The top seed 30-0 up and in control. Another easy point followed by a well-timed backhand into the corner winds up the game.

Three-time Australian Open men's doubles winner Todd Woodbridge writes on Twitter: "This is sci-fi tennis. How do they keep up this intensity?"

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Fine serving from Murray, serving up an ace to the wings for a 40-0 lead, and he hurls another cool ace down the 'T' for a convincing hold, as if to tell Djokovic: "What have you got left, punk?"

BBC Sport vote

Our very own Sue Barker is backing Murray to triumph (even before that latest break) - but who are you going for? Make sure you take part in our vote which you can find on the right side of this page (desktop) or in the glitzy yellow tab at the top (mobile). You've got until 12:00 GMT to cast your vote and the result will follow shortly after.

Murray breaks

AP

Djokovic needed a toilet break after that second set tie-break and who can blame him. The Serb returns and we're back in action. Balletic and brutal from both players. An array of colourful shots from Murray, wrong-footing Djokovic and seeing his rival off with a sweet backhand. The Briton 0-30 up. Both playing on reserves of energy, digging deep.

Two break points Murray and Djokovic folds like a deckchair in the wind. Biffing a straightforward forehand into the net and he slips onto the canvas. The Serb treads back to his chair with the look of a man who has already gone 12 rounds and thrown his best punches.

Match statistics so far

BBC Sport

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Patricia Iris Kerins: Andy Murray - win or lose we have an amazing winner in this young man. As we say in Glasgow 'pure dead brilliant'.

N Moore: I didn't see Andy getting to this final let alone winning it but anything goes in this epic battle. Four tie-breaks anyone?

Rob Chew: Absolutely beautiful final. Plans for the day are slowly going out the window though.

Jason Missen: This is one of the most physical and exciting games of tennis I have ever watched.

Sue Barker

BBC tennis presenter on BBC Two

"Who do I think is going to win now? I would go with Murray. I've been impressed. At a set and a break down, I thought if he is going to become negative this is the time to do it. He didn't. He stayed positive and calm. That's what's impressed me."

Hello, Aimee here again. Jonathan has scooted to Sunday service to pray that this match turns into an epic five-setter. We've already been treated to a humdinger. By the way, if you want to watch highlights of each set you can do so by visiting the 'highlights' tab at the top of this page. The first set is already there and waiting for you.

Murray wins second set

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And there it is! Andy Murray roars with delight, clenching his right fist, as Djokovic hits the net again after a chopped return from the Scot lands right at his feet.

Djokovic sets himself up nicely for an easy overhead at the net. Two set points for Murray...

Tie-break

Not that easy. Murray sees the second set open up right in front of his eyes, only to overhit a volley with the court wide open. How did he miss that? Three set points for Murray...

Tie-break

Two more points is all Murray needs to win this set. Murray forces Djokovic to go long on his backhand and he has four set points. Easy, huh.

Tie-break

Quick change of ends, a quick intake of breath. Djokovic serves before another rally takes place. The Serb puffs and pants, and plants a tired forehand into the net to end a 26-shot rally. Murray in total control...

Tie-break

Murray can't let this lead slip, can he? Djokovic with a thunderous forehand winner into the corner to reduce the deficit.

Tie-break

Murray lashes a first serve into the net. Djokovic licks his lips as he awaits the second. Murray's second serve isn't the strongest aspect of his game - but Djokovic can't take advantage. He goes big with a cross-court backhand which drifts wide.

Tie-break

Djokovic long on the forehand return and there's a chink of light between Murray and his opponent.

Tie-break

Djokovic. Ace. Murray leads 2-1. Need to know anything else?

Tie-break

Back and forth on the baseline they go... Djokovic ending the slug-fest by overcooking a forehand.

Tie-break

Here we are again. A must-win tie-break for Murray. The Briton opens with a thumping ace. Djokovic complains that he heard a beep from the ball clipping the net for a let but the umpire ignores the Serb's protest.

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Novak Djokovic wants a comfortable hold with minimum fuss. My fingers want a comfortable Djokovic hold with minimum fuss. Yipee! Djokovic serves and serves big to hold out for love. And that means one thing - another tie-break...

BBC Sport football analyst Robbie Savage on Twitter: When you watch these two play tennis it amazes me how modern day footballers complain of tiredness. Embarrassing really.

Whatever this lot inside the Rod Laver Arena have paid for a ticket, it is well worth the considerable outlay. They knew it would be.

Djokovic tries a lob which lands in the tramlines to put Murray 30-15 ahead, before the Serb responds with backhand winner down the line. Djokovic, with the precision of a compass, forces Murray into a sharp dash across court to retrieve a forehand, then changes direction with a smart finish down the other line.

Time for Murray, trailing 40-30, to nail a first swerve. He does it. Into deuce...

One break point for Djokovic. Saved by Murray. A second break point for Djokovic. Saved by Murray. A third break point for Djokovic. Saved by Murray with a zipping ace down the T. This is like Groundhog Day. Only with Andy, not Bill, Murray.

The Briton produces something Hollywood to nick ahead - a brilliant high forehand volley - then Djokovic goes long. An extra-vigorous fist-pump from Murray tells you he has survived.

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When the going gets tough, Djokovic gets going. A classy winner leaves Murray floundering at 15-0, the Scot inexplicably sticking a routine forehand return long in the next point. Murray is chasing now, trying his luck with a hopeful lob which Djokovic smashes to safety.

But wait! Murray isn't out of this. The Briton wins a stunning point with a backhand volley for 40-30 before forcing deuce with another trademark winner.

Set point for Murray! But it goes begging with a backhand into the net. Deuce, deuce, deuce and more deuce as these two titans slug it out. Finally Djokovic retreats with his arm aloft in victory when Murray finds the tape again.

Phew. The Rod Laver Arena catches its breath after a marathon 10-minute plus game.

AFP

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Barbuwa Kalla: At the church following the live updates. Can't even concentrate on the pastor's sermon. C'mon Murray.

AFP

Becki Ritson: Worth getting up for early on a Sunday. Fantastic final. I'm exhausted, just watching it.

Barry Hayes: This game should be moved to Vegas. It's like watching two heavyweights slogging it out toe-to-toe. Great stuff.

Tick tock. The clock ticks past the two-hour mark as Djokovic tosses up to stay in the second set....

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"The break after the protesters helped Andy Murray more than Novak Djokovic, who now has to come up and hold his serve. But the way Murray is pumped up, it won't be easy and it means Djokovic has to come up with a good game."

AP

Aussie actor Eric Bana is best known for his role as the Incredible Hulk - a character which Andy Murray resembles now and again on court. Without the green body paint of course.

But the Scot is pretty calm at the moment, and for good reason. This game has had more gear changes than a battered Vauxhall Nova and now it is Murray who is coasting along in fifth. An impressive service game - a hold to love - puts the British number one in the driving seat.

After that brief interlude, we're back under way. The respite does Murray the power of good, the Briton snatching the first point with a peach of a forehand.

Djokovic jabs back at 15-15 before another stinging Murray return catches Djokovic off-balance. These long-standing rivals trade blows again, Murray moving within sight of a break when a baseline rally ends in Djokovic finding the net with a stretching forehand.

Break point for Murray - and the British number one is back in business! He decides to bring another slugfest to an end with a sweeping forehand down the line.

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"It's a pretty good effort to get on to the court as you have a 15-foot jump down to the court, so I don't know how they got down there. The two people had a banner of some sort that they did not have time to unveil before they were escorted away.

"There are 14 security guys there and four of those men were standing around and protecting each player."

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Idiot alert. A couple of spectators have dodged security and managed to run on to Rod Laver Arena to voice some sort of protest. A host of burly yellow-shirted security guards quickly spring into action, keeping the culprits away from the players and then turfing them out to cheers from the other fans. There's always someone wanting to spoil the fun....

"Come on. Come on!" is the pep talk that Murray gives to himself after Djokovic tries to get inside his head. The Serb questions a clearly good Murray forehand return at 15-15, Murray grinning as he gets the nod from the computer.

Murray crunches another winner to go 40-15 ahead, before an aggressive Djokovic has a go back to win the next point. Murray rises to the challenge though, spanking an ace down the T.

Jelena Djokoivc

Novak Djokovic's wife Jelena posts a picture on Twitter of their baby son watching the match on television and says: "Everything looks so much better from this perspective. In Stefan's world, daddy is always a winner."

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Djokovic is finding more rhythm than a funk and soul band now. The Serb booms down serve after serve for a hold-to-love game. Easy. That's 12 straight points for the world number one - Murray must stop the rot. Quick.

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"This is what I didn't want Andy Murray to do - drop into just one pace. Unfortunately he has done that and Novak Djokovic clicks into rhythm well.

"When he's in that rhythm it's really hard to break it. Murray has to start mixing it up as it is like a warm-up at the moment.

"There's still a long way to go and Djokovic may go off the boil as he did in the first set, but the reality is he has been in a lot more tough match-play situations than Andy and that may make the difference."

Djokovic breaks

Uh oh. Dangerous times for Murray. Djokovic ups the ante, slamming his foot on the returning pedal as Murray struggles to keep pace.

The Serb has three break points. Murray tries to pick at the Djokovic backhand. The response? A crashing return down the line. Murray aims to get Djokovic scampering across court but the Serb dashes to his right like a 100m sprinter to fire back a winner.

Get involved

Dom Bourke: Murray needs to avoid getting embroiled in Djokovic's injury woes and play his own game. Needs to stay focused.

Daniel Simmonds: This match is like a watching a Korean movie in a hotel on a stopover. #confusing

Fissuh H Kelelom: Head says Novak, heart says Andy. Come on Andy you can do it with a bit of mental strength. Novak is mentally very strong.

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This contest is getting a little X-rated. And Murray's fiancee Kim Sears has not even uttered an expletive. Instead it is her hubby-to-be - and his opponent - who are castigating themselves with naughty shouts and racquet slams.

And it isn't surprising as this game see-saws on the edge. Djokovic chips away at the Murray forehand, eventually levering himself into a 40-30 advantage. The Serb steps into the net and thumps a passing volley into the covers to move back level.

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Caroline Stokes

Caroline Stokes shows her support for Andy Murray with this picture on Twitter.

Djokovic breaks back

While Djokovic's ankle is not up to speed, the Serb's brain certainly is. Trailing 15-0, he outfoxes the Briton who is left panting after being forced to chase the ball all over the court.

A backhand error into the net gives Djokovic a sniff of the break at 30-15, then a huge whiff drifts under his nose as a cross-court dropshot puts him 40-30 ahead.

And he snaffles that chance like a hungry fox to break back instantly. Murray drills a forehand into the net. Djokovic's ankle injury suddenly appears to have disappeared....

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"It is now time for Andy Murray to put the pressure on and he has been gifted a couple of shots by a partially-lame Novak Djokovic."

Australian Open

Murray breaks

Now I'm no physio - but I have had a few ankle injuries in my time. And Djokovic seems to be struggling - especially when he loses a point...

Djokovic drills a poor forehand into the net to give Murray two break points. The Briton needs just the one! The Serb plants a baseline backhand into the tape as Murray whoops with joy.

Russell Fuller

BBC tennis correspondent

"Djokovic with the first set, but very little between them. Both give the impression they have prepared themselves mentally for a long night."

Getty Images

Back to business. Murray needs to make a flying start - and he does. A dropshot looks too short for Djokovic, who stretches to put racquet to ball, but can't find the court.

The pair trade points before Djokovic goes long to leave Murray on the verge. More worryingly for the Serb, he takes tumble after that return, crumbling to the court like a soggy digestive biscuit. Looks like a left ankle problem to me.

He gingerly climbs to his feet, but can't reply to a booming Murray serve. Easy hold for the Briton. Djokovic with a slight limp as he makes his way back to his seat.

First set statistics

BBC Sport

Get involved

British women's number one Heather Watson on Twitter: I'm so tired just by watching this tiebreak. Every point is epic.

Andy Murray is chuntering along to himself as he wipes his furrowed brow at the break. Any ideas what he is saying to himself? Who knows. Ready for another set? Good....

Game and first set - Djokovic

Piers Newbery

BBC Sport at Melbourne Park

If you play the world number one for 20 minutes and he doesn't make a mistake, you've done pretty well to make it to a tie-break. This is video game tennis on the hardest setting imaginable. The wind is still gusting and making it tough to serve from one end, there are a few heavy clouds visible in the darkening sky above, and we could have another four of this to go.

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Anna Langton: I feel like I'm watching something of historic significance. Amazing tennis.

Grumpy-old-man: Currently in hospital watching the final, got excited shouting 'come on', nurses came running to save me.

Robin Armstrong: Can barely watch. Watching and then looking away. And there may be four more sets after this.

Game and first set - Djokovic

Getty Images

Set point Djokovic. An ace down the middle? Nope, although HawkEye proves the Djokovic serve was a only a fraction wide. Murray with a backhand return into the net on the second serve and Djokovic clenches his fist. I shall pass you on to Jonathan 'JJ' Jurejko who will guide you through the second set.

Tie-break

'Ooohs' and 'aaahs' fill the Rod Laver Arena as lobs and smashes are brought into the mix. But then Murray misses a simple volley at the net - to give Djokovic a set point...

Tie-break

The spectators burst into life, whistling and screaming encouragement to their favourite player before Murray serves up. Murray pouncing like a panther at the net - a driving crosscourt winner. Beautiful.

Tie-break

AP

This is tense. Very tense. And it is getting to the players. Another error from Murray, overcooking a backhand from the baseline and Djokovic claws back a 4-2 deficit to lead 5-4.

Tie-break

Djokovic long on the first serve... Second serve finds the target... both holding firm at the back of the court until a Murray forehand dribbles into the tape and we're back on serve.

Tie-break

Murray changes ends with a two-point lead. The Scot serves to extend that advantage, pumping a first one wide. Don't double fault Andy, don't double fault. He double faults. An aggressive second serve misses the target.

Tie-break

Limbs are tightening, the brain starting to play games as we reach squeaky-bum time. Another mammoth baseline rally and Djokovic, sliding along the back of the court, nets a forehand.

Tie-break

Another long rally - and another break! Murray nudges ahead as a loose Djokovic forehand goes long.

Tie-break

Djokovic has wiped away Murray's mini-break and follows up a fine first serve with a winning backhand volley to level at 2-2.

Tie-break

Djokovic breaks back. Murray's second serve is returned with interest from Djokovic, sparking a 20-shot rally. Murrays look to end it with an ambitious lob - too long.

Tie-break

A rasping serve down the 'T' from Murray followed up with a dreamy forehand winner. Murray 2-0 up.

Tie-break

Ding ding! That's the sound of the tie-break bell.

Djokovic to open up, first serve down the line. The second? Too long. Double fault from the world number one. Wowsers.

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"One of the major improvements in Andy Murray's game has been his movement around the net."

Tie-break

During the changeover Murray complains to the umpire that comings and goings near one of the entrances to the court are in his eye line so a man in a suit trots on and off to deal with the situation. Feather-soft touch at the net from Murray, a backhand volley, brings up three game points. A crafty first serve later, Djokovic netting the return, takes us to a tie-break. Yay!

Andrew Castle

BBC tennis commentator on BBC One

"Tennis is often about concentration. Just when you think Djokovic is losing concentration he clicks back in. Now Murray is back under pressure, serving to stay in the set."

Crash. Bang. Wallop. That's the sound of Djokovic launching a bazooka down the 'T' with such power that there's a thudding sound as it hits the back of the court. Murray nicks two points, but an angry forehand volley into the corner from Djokovic brings the game to an end. And what is that on appearing on the horizon? A tie-break?

Get involved

Simon Newell: Murray v Djokovic. What a start in the Australian Open final, so many breaks of serve and superb tennis.

Tom Gumbleton: These are the two best returners in the world, there is bound to be so many breaks of serve.

Christopher: Djokovic is there for the taking. If Murray takes the first set this could be over in straight sets.

Getty Images

The trainer appeared during the changeover with magic spray and sprayed some over Djokovic's blistered right thumb. Can the Serb block out the pain to trouble Murray on his own serve? Nah. The Serb with a backhand drop shot into the tape, followed up by a couple of unreturnable howitzers from Murray and there's no separating these childhood pals at the moment. Both have hit 31 winners and it's even-stevens in the first set.

Murray breaks back

BBC

Djokovic is shaking his right hand, it seems the top seed has a nasty blister to contend with as well as a riled Scot. Murray on the front foot, upping the aggression in this game, and marches to a 15-30 lead thanks to a thudding forehand winner after a series of sloppy smashes from Djokovic. Someone has put cement in the Serb's boots because he simply watches a lethal Murray forehand winner zip down the line. Two break points Murray. A shake of the hand from Djokovic. Clever from Murray, varying play from the back of the court, and Djokovic's backhand is not his friend today. What a start.

Getty Images

Ricky Ponting, former captain of the Australia cricket team, is among those in Rod Laver Arena.

Ponting will also be probably interested to know that Australia are closing in on a victory against England in the final of the tri-series. Live text commentary of the cricket is available, but don't forget to come back here.

Djokovic breaks

The British number one rattles off two quick points to take control of the game, but the Scot, twirling on the baseline, is long by 0.000001mm with a backhand which allows Djokovic to rein himself back into contention. The longer the rallies, the likelier Djokovic is to win the point which is why Murray's fans begin to watch through the lattice of their fingers as the pair trade blows from the baseline and, as has often happened in this match, Djokovic comes out on top. 30-30.

Murray with a frustrated roar as his forehand clips the net and falls into the tramlines, gifting Djokovic with a break point. A peach of a second serve gets Murray out of danger, but the Scot goes long on the next point and he must defend a second break point. The Briton meekly surrenders, a tame backhand goes over the baseline and Djokovic to serve for the set.

Get involved

Kiefer Kirtland: Final of the Aussie Open. As long as Murray plays quite aggressively there's no reason he can't win this. Come on Muzza.

Tim Jenkins: If you had been asleep for 10 years and woken up to watch this match you would be astounded at the standard.

Murray breaks back

Getty Images

At 15-15, the pair absorb mighty baseline punches, from side to side they shuffle, patiently waiting for the other to crumble and it's Djokovic who folds first, a backhand into the tape for 15-30. Murray with a sniff... a crackerjack of a backhand return forces the Serb to mess up at the net. Two break points Murray. Decibels rise inside Rod Laver Arena...

The Scot squanders one break point, the forehand drifting long, Murray slaps his thigh in frustration. One break point remaining... the court opens up for the Scot... he goes for a forehand winner, but the ball spins into the tramlines. Murray growls. Agony for his supporters.

Deuce... The Djokovic backhand faltering. Third break point Murray... Djokovic with a second serve... the pair attempting to kill each other by death of a thousand slices... they soon up the ante, increase the power and the Djokovic backhand fails him once again! We're back on serve.

Pundits' eye view

BBC Radio 5 live

This is the view from the BBC Radio 5 live commentary box in Melbourne. Former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash is currently talking listeners through the action.

Get involved

Danny Power: Good to see Murray finally back in a Grand Slam final since struggling with his back. But he still isn't on Djokovic's level.

Angela Goodnight: Watching Murray now. Djo is brilliant at the moment. Murray must hang on in through this period.

Andrew Castle

BBC tennis commentator on BBC One

"This is an absolute tactic, put together by Becker and Djokovic. They've thought: 'if we're aggressive and we get in then Murray can't and he wants to. We're not letting Murray do what he wants to do - which he did against Berdych, Kyrgios and Dimitrov.' Very astute."

Two easy points for Murray, which were the nerve-easers the British number one needed. Murray jumps in from the baseline, has acres of the court to aim at but, maybe, there's such a thing as too much time as the Scot's forehand falters. Djokovic bullying the British number one from the baseline but, thankfully, for Murray fans at least, the Scot's serve is as tough as titanium. The Serb is always in the game, though, 30-15, 40-30... but Murray even has Djokovic applauding his backhand winner down the line which concludes the game in the Scot's favour.

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"It's fantastic tennis from Novak Djokovic and it is similar to what we saw from Serena Williams in the women's final last night.

"We spoke to lots of people, lots of former players and asked them who they thought would win and no one said Murray. Everyone said it would be a close match, but everyone said Djokovic to win."

Andrew Castle

BBC tennis commentator on BBC One

"That's simply unplayable. Murray had the first chances to break, but Djokovic is accelerating away now. Not sure Murray can be doing anything differently at the moment - he's playing well."

AFP

The world number one has bounced out of his phone box, whipped off his glasses and donned his red cape early in this match. A superhuman start from the Serb, who is playing with freedom and oodles of confidence. A textbook forehand winner from the top seed concludes a confident hold to 15, and Murray is in a spot of bother.

Djokovic breaks

Getty Images

An ill-timed Murray drop shot is free lunch for Djokovic, with the Serb pouncing with an irretrievable volley. Murray 0-30 down, but not yet out. Plenty of action on the baseline from the pair at the beginning of this match, Djokovic content to retrieve and fetch all day long, but the Serb notices a gap on the Murray backhand and lets rip with a dreamy forehand winner. Three break points Djokovic. Murray saves one, but can do little but watch a Djokovic return fly by on the next point and, like the rest of us, he must just look on in admiration.

John Lloyd

1977 Australian Open runner-up on BBC One

"Twice Djokovic came in to the net, and in the last rally he got away with it with two excellent volleys. I'm not sure he will get away with that. Maybe he fears Murray from the back of the court and does not want to trade with him. Djokovic won those points but I'm not sure about that tactic. When it gets to the business side of the set I think Murray will pass on those balls or get them lower."

Get involved

Jack Blackburn: I've suddenly realised that I am underprepared for this match. I haven't bought myself lunch and this will finish at about 2.30pm.

Lee Charleton: Well if the first three games are anything to go by, this Djokovic v Murray Australian Open final is going to be a tennis war.

Paul Collins: It would be good for Murray to win but I can only see Djokovic winning. He can't play as badly as the other day again.

Whoa! Phenomenal retrieving from Murray, turning defence into attack with a fabulous forehand winner which Djokovic would not have caught had he started chasing it yesterday. Djokovic with a backhand into the tape... Murray stepping in from the baseline, crunching a forehand winner down the line... Three break points Murray! Blimey. Djokovic saves one... Cat-and-mouse on the baseline from the pair.. 25 shots, 26 shots... Djokovic sprints towards the tape and ends an intriguing rally with a cute backhand volley. The Serb with a serve to the wings, jamming Murray and all three break points are gone, gone, gone and is that Murray's chance in this game whistling in the Melbourne wind?

Djokovic at advantage thanks to a cool ace. Another baseline slug-fest from the pair but, once again, Djokovic concludes shenanigans from the back of the court with an impressive backhand volley down the line. On we go.

Getty Images

The experts say Murray must vary his serve if he is to win the title, keep Djokovic guessing, they say, with plenty of slice and dice. The Scot opens with a deep serve which is too good for his rival and razor-sharp reflexes for an improvised volley has the Scot 30-0 up. So far, so good. But Djokovic nibbles at the Scot's lead - Murray long on the forehand, the Serb then crunching a forehand winner into the corner. Both players hitting big and hitting early.

At 30-30, Djokovic twice challenges but twice fails. Murray with a wide serve to Djokovic's forehand for 40-30. Oof! That was close, a Murray crosscourt forehand out by a fingertip and Djokovic forces the game to deuce. An ace followed by another unreturnable boomer eases the tension. At ease, everyone.

'Murray is playing with a point to prove'

Todd Woodbridge, who won three men's doubles titles at the Australian Open, tells BBC Radio 5 live: "My heart is with Andy, he deserves to win the Australian Open.

"If he can maintain a high level for a long period of time he will get on top of Novak Djokovic. The key is his serve and if he can have a high percentage of first serves then that will give him a chance.

"I love the way Andy has controlled fire and it looks like he is playing with a point to prove."

Get involved

Hamish

Hamish: We are ready. Got my kilt on.

Intense roars from the jam-packed crowd as the players skip to their positions. Hairs standing on back of necks, goose bumps appearing on shaky arms, flashbulbs popping...

Djokovic to serve first and the Serb dashes towards the net, but is forced back by a canny Murray lob and the Serb, running backwards, fails to put away a smash and eventually he nets. First blow Murray. A whopper of a serve comes to the top seed's rescue. 15-15. Lethal from Djokovic, driving a down-the-line backhand winner for a 30-15 lead. A serve-and-volley takes the world number one to within a point of holding and another solid volley sees Djokovic home. A confident start for the Serb.

Getty Images

There might be a few tears if Murray loses in Melbourne again. And there might be a few expletives from his fiancee Kim Sears.

Kim was caught launching a few naughty words during her man's semi-final against Tomas Berdych. So today she is wearing a 'Parental Advisory, Explicit Content' jumper. Amazing bantz...

Get involved

Chris Burgoyne: I'm missing my normal burst of playing sport on a Sunday morning to watch this. Bring it on.

Jon Salinger: Nothing like lying in bed watching the men's Australian Open final. Come on Andy, let's get off to a winning start.

Bryn Rogers: I'm really looking forward to a few solid hours of emotional torture #comeonandy.

BBC

Just seven days separate these 27-year-old finalists, with Djokovic the younger by a week, but when it comes head-to-head meetings there's a gulf between the world number one and the sixth seed, with Djokovic holding a commanding 15-8 record against the Briton, winning seven of their last eight matches.

'Andy Murray is smiling more, joking more'

BBC Radio 5 live

Three-time Australian Open men's champion Mats Wilander has been speaking to BBC Radio 5 live. He says: "If you want to fight on the court that means you are having fun. Andy Murray is smiling more, joking more.

"He is a funny guy off the court but seeing him on court, for me, has been one of the most refreshing parts of the tournament."

EPA

Both men look cool as a cucumber which has been in the fridge for a couple of days. They are laughing and smiling as they meet at the net to contest the coin toss. Max, the beaming mascot, outgrins them both as they pose for the packs of photographers dotted around the court. Time for a quick knock-up, then it is show-time...

Murray two-times the winner

Getty Images

As you probably know, there hasn't been a Djokovic-shaped hex hanging over Murray in every Grand Slam final. It was the Serb the Scot beat, after a pep talk in the toilet, to win the US Open in 2012, his first Grand Slam. And it was on the pristine grass of SW19 that Murray defeated Djokovic to finally win Wimbledon. See, Djokovic hasn't had it all his own way.

Piers Newbery

BBC Sport at Melbourne Park

Piers Newbery

"And the roof rolls back, we have an outdoor final."

Andy Murray stretches his left calf by leaning against the wall as he awaits Djokovic to appear from the locker room. The Briton has opted for the Johnny Cash look for the final, head-to-toe in menacing black. Minutes later, the top seed appears - hurrah - and the players begin the nervy walk out onto the court.

John Lloyd

1977 Australian Open runner-up on BBC One

"I like Andy Murray saying he isn't the favourite today - it is all psychological stuff. If Andy wins, it wouldn't be a huge upset. Djokovic is a marginal - and I mean marginal - favourite."

The ticket holders were on their feet moments ago because a gentleman was bellowing out the Australian anthem. Blood-pumpingly tuneful. The great Roy Emerson, the only man to have won six Australian Open titles, walks out on court with the sparkling trophy which awaits the winner. Aussie Open organisers know how to build the tension before a morning/afternoon/evening of drama.

Murray win would be 'big upset'

Piers Newbery

There are still a few empty seats on Rod Laver Arena, but there's still some time for the stragglers to filter through.

Murray has said fans would witness a "big upset" if he wins the title today.

"He has a fantastic record here," the British number one has said. "He loves the court and the conditions. It would be a big upset if I manage to win. I'm not saying it's not a possibility, but it's going to be very, very tough."

Piers Newbery

BBC Sport at Melbourne Park

Piers Newbery

"We are about to commence proceedings," says the announcer. The roof is still across but expected to roll back once we get under way. Look out - there is dancing. It's all gone a bit London 2012 on Rod Laver Arena. Six-time champ Roy Emerson brings a bit of class to proceedings as he brings in the trophy. Djokovic could get within one tonight.

Murray's previous Australian Open finals

2013: Djokovic 6-7 7-6 6-3 6-2 Murray

Getty Images

Murray's Grand Slam hoodoo finally ended when he beat Djokovic at the 2012 US Open. Four months later, the pair met again in a second straight showpiece.

But the British number one could not match the result in New York, despite nicking the first set on a tie-break.

Djokovic levelled in the second, and the Serb took control as Murray struggled with blisters and ran out of steam.

Djokovic's victory made him the first man in the open era to win three straight Australian Open singles titles - as Murray cast an envious glance at the silverware.

Martina backs Murray

Getty Images

Martina Navratilova knows a thing or two about winning a Grand Slam. The Czech-American won 18 major singles titles between 1979 and 1990, including three Australian Opens.

"Andy might be a slight favourite for me," Navratilova tells BBC Sport.

"I think Andy has slimmed down a little bit; he seems to be a bit leaner, he's moving really well, still has all the power, improved his second serve.

"He has got to be encouraged by his performances so far in this tournament, and also by the fact that Djokovic wasn't at his best against Wawrinka."

Aussies backing the Briton?

BBC Radio 5 live

So we have a Briton and a Serb doing battle in Australia. Who will the Melbourne crowd be backing? The Aussies aren't known for their fondness of all things Brit, but local journalist Kelly Underwood reckons the neutrals will be throwing their weight behind Murray.

"They love an underdog and I think they would love to see Andy Murray break through," she says.

"Novak Djokovic has been here before and won, and they would probably like to see a new champion. Andy also won plenty of friends when he beat home favourite Nick Kyrgios,"

John Lloyd

1977 Australian Open runner-up

"Playing Djokovic, Murray has to be aggressive at times and can't be too passive. Because if he lets him dictate, he will be in trouble. He doesn't want to go overboard and be aggressive too soon, he will have to pick the right times to attack.

"His second serve is sometimes a bit vulnerable - semi-final opponent Berdych didn't hurt him enough and should have gone at it more.

"If he is not bold and hits them 80mph in the middle of the box, then he might not get away with it.

"I'd put Djokovic as the slight favourite."

Will Andy Murray be affected by fiancee Kim Sears' outburst? How has coach Amelie Mauresmo influenced him? And is he back to his 2012-13 form? Read more from ex-GB Davis Cup captain John Lloyd.

Get involved

Frances Ferguson: ‏I put this on the lounge door on Friday. Hopefully no interruptions & fantabulous tennis.

Frances Ferguson

BBC coverage

*BBC coverage starting klaxon*

Sue Barker is ready, the camera is rolling and the dramatic opening VT is running. That means our TV coverage is under way. Tune into BBC One, or watch live at the top of this page.

Leon Smith

GB Davis Cup captain on BBC Radio 5 live

"Having spent some time with Andy Murray in the locker room earlier today, he is very relaxed and will now just spend some time on his own to get his thoughts together. In the practice session he was hitting the ball great.

"His level has remained high and consistent so he is feeling good going into this. He's in a really good frame of mind and he knows he is playing well."

BBC Sport vote

And to continue the theme of social interaction, now is an opportune time to inform you that our BBC Sport vote is up and running.

We've gone with the obvious question - who is going to win? Andy Murray? Or Novak Djokovic?

If you're following on your desktop/laptop then you will find this on the right-hand side of the page. If you're using the mobile app then click the 'Vote' tab at the top of the page. Got it?

Get involved

In a week where plenty of focus has centred around Winton Churchill - considered by many to be the greatest Briton,Andy Murray was asked to name his greatest sporting Briton yesterday.

The Scot initially blurted out the names of golfer Rory McIlroy and boxer Joe Calzaghe, before sticking cyclist - and fellow Scot - Chris Hoy into the mix.

So that has got us thinking. If Murray wins his third Slam today, leaving him just a French Open victory away from a career sweep of the major tournaments, would that leave him as one of Britain's all-time sporting greats?

Yes? No? If not, who else should be in the top three and why? We want to know. So cram your thoughts into 140 characters on Twitter using #bbctennis, or text 81111 if you need more space. You can also tell us on the BBC Sport Facebook page. Go, go, go!

Murray's previous Australian Open finals

2011: Djokovic 6-4 6-2 6-3 Murray

Getty Images

Twelve months after that emotional defeat by Roger Federer (see 07:44), Murray was back in the final on Rod Laver Arena. And he may have been pleased not to see previous nemesis Federer facing him.

However, he was facing Novak Djokovic. The Serb was at the start of a season in which he would win three Slams and establish himself - at Federer's expense - as the world's best player.

Djokovic was far too strong with his power and movement, although Murray did not help himself in a nervous display.

EPA

Whether you're still lazing around in your comfy bed, out walking the dog in the freezing cold, or sat at the Rod Laver Arena wearing colourful facepaint, this is your 30-minute warning.

The stadium is filling up nicely, a whiff of excitement filling the Melbourne air. Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic are due to stroll out on court in about half an hour.

The story so far - Novak Djokovic

BBC Sport

The story so far - Andy Murray

BBC Sport

BBC coverage

The boss is hovering around our desk, demanding to know why we haven't yet told you about the many ways which you can follow this humdinger across BBC Sport. So here is the lowdown.

Television coverage begins on 08:15 GMT on BBC One, while our colleagues at BBC Radio 5 live start slightly earlier at 08:00 GMT. That's in six minutes.

And of course, don't forget you can read about every serve, volley and mop of the brow right here. Never forget that.

Stat attack

If statistics make you all excitable and giddy, then you are going to be shaking uncontrollably with fact-based hysteria today. We have Djokovic/Murray-related numbers coming out of our ears. Here are a few to whet your appetite...

• Four-time champion Djokovic is aiming to become the second man to win five or more Australian Open titles (Roy Emerson is the other)
• Murray is hoping to become the first man to win the title after losing three previous finals
• Murray has lost his last five matches against the player ranked number one in the world

Russell Fuller

BBC tennis correspondent

Russell Fuller

"Bright lights on a gloomy day. But roof expected to be open (to let the wind in) for Murray v Djokovic.

"It feels a bit like the early May bank holiday in the UK: cool, overcast, and a wind of about 20 mph. Murray won't mind."

Murray's previous Australian Open finals

2010: Federer 6-3 6-4 7-6 Murray

Getty Images

Eighteen months after defeat by Roger Federer in the 2008 US Open final, Murray reached his second Grand Slam final - again it was the Swiss superstar staring back from across the other side of the net.

This match was much closer but once again Federer proved too strong, although Murray blew five set points in the tie-break to go into a fourth set.

And defeat hit the 22-year-old Briton hard, as he broke down in his on-court interview. "I can cry like Roger, it's just a shame I can't play like him," he blubbed.

Andy Murray has already silenced the doubters, he can point to the two Grand Slam titles in his trophy cabinet. But what he has yet to do is show the world he can beat world number one Novak Djokovic in Melbourne Park. The top seed beat Murray in the 2011 and 2013 finals, so will it be third time lucky for the Briton or a hat-trick of victories for Djokovic against his old friend?

AFP

Hello! If you've been stuck in a cave for the last few days or, for a laugh, decided to stop communicating with the outside world, you may not know that Andy Murray has reached the Australian Open and, in just under an hour, will to toe-to-toe with his childhood friend Novak Djokovic in a mouth-watering duel for the title. This, in case you were wondering, is live text commentary of that match.

In the three million years or so that the varying versions of us humans have shuffled across this planet of ours, there have been many firsts; many remarkable feats achieved when history said it was impossible. "You're going to do what, Neil?" some would have sniffed in 1969. "Walk on the what? Talk me through it again..."

Science Photo Library

Back in 1903, the Wright brothers had dabbled and repaired and said they were ready to fly. "A machine? In the sky, Wilbur?" some would have sniggered. But if you tinker and fix and practice for long enough, you can achieve what once seemed unattainable.

AP

And here we are in the beginnings of 2015, eyes fixed on a rectangular court in Melbourne, questioning, wondering... "Win the Australian Open, Andy? But you've lost the final three times. You've never beaten Novak in Melbourne?"