Australian Open 2012 Results: Why Djokovic Needs Grand Slam Win More Than Nadal

Novak Djokovic needs to win the 2012 Australian Open final more than Rafael Nadal on Sunday because the Serbian star has a real chance to go on a historic run and cement himself as one of the best players of this generation.

After winning three Grand Slam singles titles in 2011, Djokovic has not slowed down this month in Melbourne, and is looking to win four of the last five Grand Slam tournaments he's played in.

Djokovic has a chance to become the most dominant male athlete in the world. His domination of tennis over the world's best tennis players over the last year has been quite remarkable.

Nadal has won 10 Grand Slam singles titles and will forever be regarded as one of the best tennis players ever, but Djokovic's legacy has yet to be made. His spot among the sport's all-time best has not been secured.

With Roger Federer not looking like an elite player anymore, Nadal battling injuries in recent months, and Andy Murray still unable to find a breakthrough in a Grand Slam, Djokovic has a great chance to complete an unprecedented Grand Slam this season.

It's not crazy to realistically expect Djokovic to win all four Grand Slam singles titles this season. His service game is fantastic, his quickness is solid, and his decision making has been sharp throughout the month in Melbourne.

In his thrilling five-set win against Murray, Djokovic was able to find an astounding amount of energy and athleticism despite the match lasting five hours. Murray played one of his better Grand Slam semifinals and Djokovic still found a way to win despite going down two sets to one.

Djokovic needs this victory over Nadal to set the stage for a historic run this season that could be a year to remember for the Serbian star.

A triumph at this year's Australian Open would give Djokovic five Grand Slam titles at age 24, and well put him in great position to dominate the sport for years.

A loss to Nadal would be a setback for Djokovic because it will destroy his confidence going into the events following the Australian Open. For him to be as dominant as he's played, then lose to Nadal, would be a demoralizing defeat for Djokovic.

Djokovic needs this championship to set up a fantastic run that could be one of the most amazing season's ever for a men's tennis star, making this final against Nadal a must-win.