(BBC) – Novak Djokovic says he does not feel any different “in terms of stress” as he aims to beat Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Australian Open final and win a record-equalling 22nd men’s major.

Serbia’s Djokovic, 35, faces the 24-year-old Greek – who is bidding for a first Grand Slam title – on Sunday.

“I know every single Grand Slam is a golden opportunity for me to try to get another trophy,” Djokovic said.

“I don’t know how many more opportunities I’ll have.”

Tsitsipas faces a tough task against Djokovic, who has not lost in Melbourne since 2018 and has dropped just one set this tournament after a series of dominant performances.

While Djokovic is competing in a 33rd major final and he is playing in only his second, Tsitsipas says he “couldn’t be more ready for this moment.”

Djokovic has won a record nine Australian Open men’s singles titles but missed the chance to defend his crown last year after he was deported from Australia following a row about his COVID-19 vaccination status.

He has been hampered by a hamstring injury on his return to Melbourne Park and also had to deal with controversy surrounding his father Srdjan before Friday’s semi-final against American Tommy Paul.

Srdjan Djokovic watched his son’s win at home to avoid causing “disruption” after being pictured with supporters of Russian president Vladimir Putin.

But the player says he is not feeling any added pressure at the end of two weeks where he has the opportunity to equal Rafael Nadal’s record tally of most Grand Slam men’s singles titles.

“I don’t think it’s particularly different in terms of stress or what I’m going through on the court comparing to most of the other Slams I played in my life,” he said.

“Of course, I feel it. I feel pressure. I feel stress as any other player. I feel nerves. I feel excitement. There’s a lot of different emotions that go through.

“The experience of being in this particular situation and circumstances before helps. The fact that I have never lost in Australian Open finals definitely serves as a great confidence booster.

“But, of course, the job still needs to be done on the court.”