Nadal through to Australian Open final after epic

Rafael Nadal was elated as he progressed through to his first Australian Open final after an epic match yesterday.

The World No1 won 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 7-5 (7/2), 5-7 (1/7) after a record five-set battle with fellow Spanish left-hander Fernando Verdasco.

"Right now I feel more happy than tired," said Nadal, after the five hours and 14 minutes match – now the longest in the tournament's history.

"For sure it's going to be a tough final. But it was amazing for me to play that match here. It was one of the best matches of my career."

Nadal will face three-time Australian Open champion Roger Federer in tomorrow's final.

"It's going to be a little bit tough tomorrow. Roger had the day off and only three sets in his semi-final so now, for sure, he's the favourite," added Nadal.