Novak Djokovic says he may have a slight mental advantage over French Open final opponent Andy Murray.
The World No 1 expects a tough 'physical battle' from his great rival on Sunday in Paris but agrees that his fine head-to-head record against the Brit entitles him to slight favouritism.
Djokovic has won 23 of their 33 career meetings and, since losing to Murray in the 2013 Wimbledon final, he has won 12 of their 14 meetings.
Two of those wins came in the 2015 and 2016 Australian Open finals, and Djokovic also beat Murray in the French Open semis last year.
Djokovic will now bid for a 12th Grand Slam title, but a first at Roland Garros on Sunday, and said of the upcoming clash with Murray: "I don't think that there is any particular advantage to my side.
"I think mentally, when we step on the court, sure, maybe to some extent, some small percentage, but he's playing in great form.
"It's another grand slam title up for grabs for both Andy and myself. One thing for sure I know I can expect when I get on the court with him is it's going to be a very physical battle.
"I think he's one of the most dedicated tennis players on the tour. He always seeks to improve his game and get better, which I do too.
"I think, looking at our history of the first time we played against each other when we were 11 years old all the way until now, if we knew back then that we were going to fight for the biggest trophies in this sport, I think we would both sign the document.
"It's pretty nice that our rivalry has evolved over the years."
Victory on Sunday would be particularly significant for Djokovic as it would mean he has won every Grand Slam title at least once.
He would also become the first man in 24 years to win the first two slams in a year and the first since Rod Laver in 1969 to hold all four at the same time.
However, he lost his three previous finals at Roland Garros, including to Stan Wawrinka last year.
"I've put myself in a position I wanted to be in of course, ever since last year's final," he said.
"I was hoping that the clay-court season would be successful in the other tournaments, but mostly in this one.
"It's always high on the priority list when I start a season, thinking about Roland Garros, and to be able to reach the final is really special. I've given myself another opportunity to win the trophy."
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