Record-chasing Federer and home-hope woe – Australian Open men's singles in Opta facts

Can Roger Federer maintain his late-career renaissance? Will Rafael Nadal continue to turn back the clock? The 2018 Australian Open may provide some answers.
Last year's final was like stepping into a time warp as tennis' two most decorated stars battled it out over five gripping sets in the final.

Record-chasing Federer and home-hope woe – Australian Open men's singles in Opta facts | Photo: beinsports.com

Federer got the better of his opponent on that occasion and the Swiss will be strongly fancied to retain his title this year as he chases yet another entry into the history books.

His cause is aided by the absence of five-time losing finalist Andy Murray, who has undergone hip surgery, while Novak Djokovic is another man who has been plagued by injury as he looks to avenge last year's early exit.

Below, we have taken a look at the most pertinent Opta facts ahead of the first grand slam of 2018.