Australian Open 2012: 5 Things Andy Murray Must Do to Upset Novak Djokovic

In a rematch of last year's Australian Open final, Andy Murray will take on Novak Djokovic. Djokovic has been playing on another level for a year now, and when he is at his best, it seems that he can't be beat.

In order for Murray to pull the upset, he's going to have to do several things.

Keep His Energy Level Up

Murray has been playing well this tournament, and has been helped by a soft draw. He should be very fresh going into this match. The problem is that Murray is starting to develop a trend where he briefly loses his focus against Rafael Nadal and Djokovic.

He can become disinterested if things aren't going well and just give away free points, like going to the drop shot too much. Murray can't let his mind wander. He must stay focused from start to finish.

Serve Well

Djokovic is the best returner in tennis, but Murray's serve is underrated. He can reach back and hit his serve close to 140 MPH. If he can generate that kind of pace it's a bonus, but more importantly, the first serve percentage has to be high. Murray doesn't want to give Djokovic too many looks at second serves because Djokovic can crush the ball off both sides.

Hit His Backhand down the line Effectively

The backhand down the line is one of Murray's biggest weapons. Djokovic's movement is second to none, but he is perhaps a little weaker defending to the forehand side. Murray can put Djokovic in uncomfortable positions if he can open up the court with the backhand down the line.

Play Aggressive

This goes without saying. The cat-and-mouse style that Murray likes to play won't work against Djokovic over five sets. Djokovic moves just as well as Murray does and plays defense just as well, too. Murray won't completely change his style, but he has to shorten points.

Be aggressive with the backhand, attack short balls on the forehand side and throw in some serve and volley. Murray won't have too much success in the very long rallies. Djokovic's fitness has improved too much.

Believe

Murray has a fresh voice in his ears with new coach Ivan Lendl, so that will give Murray added enthusiasm. Technically, Murray won their last meeting last summer in Cincinnati, but Djokovic had nothing left.

Murray has beaten Djokovic in big matches before when both were at their best. He needs to look across the net and see that his opponent is human and can be beaten. If Murray plays his best and changes tactics somewhat, he can pull off the upset.