Australian Open 2012 Finals: Djokovic vs. Federer and the Best Possible Clashes

There haven't been any major upsets on the men's side of the Australian Open draw, which means all of the big names are still around as the tournament enters the quarterfinal round. It also means there are plenty of potentially great final matchups still available.

With just two more rounds until the championship foes are determined, here are the best potential encounters we might get to see in the finals down under.

1. Novak Djokovic vs. Roger Federer

Even though Novak Djokovic dropped a set to Lleyton Hewitt on Monday, he still looked like the best player in the world. It's going to take an extraordinary effort, even from another top-four player, to take three sets from him right now.

If there's anybody who's up to that tall task, it would be 16-time Gland Slam champion Roger Federer. He's looked just as dominant during his run to the quarterfinals and is hoping to prove the window hasn't closed on him winning major titles.

Prediction: Federer in five sets

2. Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal and Djokovic have faced on an eye-popping 29 times during their careers, with Nadal holding a slight 16-13 edge. Djokovic has won the last six matches, however, asserting his dominance over the Spanish star in 2011.

The most worrisome part about this possible clash is Nadal's health. If he reached the final, he would have probably endured a long match against Federer to make it happen. Since he's already dealing with a sore knee, Djokovic's heavy-hitting style would be tough to overcome.

Prediction: Djokovic in four sets

3. Andy Murray vs. Roger Federer

If anybody's going to stun Djokovic before the final, it will be Andy Murray. New coach and former star Ivan Lendl seems to be pointing Murray in the right direction when it comes to finally winning his first major title.

The perfect opponent would have to be Federer. A young player looking for his first Grand Slam triumph against the all-time leader in majors. Murray won't go much longer without breaking through, but I don't think the Aussie Open is the place where he'll get it done.

Prediction: Federer in four sets