Australian Open 2012: Why Novak Djokovic Is at a Disadvantage vs. Rafael Nadal

Novak Djokovic earned his spot in the 2012 Australian Open finals after a grueling five-set semifinal marathon against Andy Murray.

The exhausted Serbian must summon every bit of willpower in him when he faces Rafael Nadal Sunday for all the marbles.

Rafa already has an extra day of rest under his belt after toppling Roger Federer on Thursday. To make matters worse, it took Djokovic nearly five hours to take down Murray in the semifinals Friday night.

Although Djokovic has defeated Nadal the last five times they've met, Nadal has a lot going for him heading into this heavyweight bout. He's finally back to full strength, and from what we've seen so far in this tournament, it looks like he's back to his 2009-2010 form.

Djokovic may very well continue his 2011 Grand Slam onslaught into 2012, but when it comes to rest, health and timing, he's clearly at a disadvantage in this match.

When you are going up against someone as powerful, mobile and skilled as Nadal, you want the conditions and circumstances to be as equalized as possible (if not in your favor).

Unfortunately for the Djoker, he has to deal with the fact that he played a total of 345 points and 50 games less than 48 hours prior to the championship match.

When Sunday rolls around, Djokovic might say that he feels fine, well-rested and ready to go. But there's a good chance that in actuality, he won't be quite as fresh as Nadal, and that could give the Spaniard an edge in this match.

Don't be surprised if Nadal leads Djokovic in the categories of unforced errors, break-point conversions and double faults. It will indicate that Nadal is sharper and more physically prepared.

Djokovic is the top-ranked player in the world, but he is at a distinct disadvantage this weekend. It will take world-class tennis and unparalleled fortitude if he wants to repeat as Aussie Open champion.