She becomes the first Australian women in 42 years to play in the final of the year's first Grand Slam. Wendy Turnbull achieved the feat in 1980, but lost in the final to Hana Mandlikova.

Barty had no trouble in dispatching the USA's Madison Keys with 6-1 and 6-3 win in the semi-finals.

The 25-year-old said she is ready for Saturday’s championship match.

“It’s unreal. It's just incredible.

“I love this tournament and love competing out here and playing in Australia.

“As an Aussie, we are exceptionally spoilt that we're a Grand Slam nation, we get to play at home and in our backyard.

“I'm just happy that I get to play my best tennis here. I enjoy it, I've done well before and now we have a chance to play for a title.”

Barty will face the USA’s Danielle Collins in the final.

The 28-year-old Collins got off to a strong start against the former French Open champion, Iga Swiatek, in the second semi-final.

Despite a valiant effort in the first set by Swiatek, the American was too strong, and she took the game with a 6-4 and 6-1.

The men’s semi-finals that will be played on Friday will see Rafael Nadal face Matteo Berrettini and Daniil Medvedev takes on Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport