Quote of the Day: Ashleigh Barty speaks on Dylan Alcott's inspiring career

Ashleigh Barty ended a 42-year wait for a home finalist in the women’s singles with a dominating 6-1, 6-3 triumph over an on-fire Madison Keys. The American claimed 10 consecutive matches before running into the Aussie, and Barty made it look easy out on Rod Laver arena on Thursday night.

Possessing a Roger Federer like quality on the court, she stayed focused and didn't allow the pressures of playing at home overwhelm her. The world No. 1 is now through to her first Australian Open final and following the affair she spoke to Jim Courier on what a great honor it is to be a part of all the Aussie success this year.

It will be an all Aussie men's doubles final on Saturday with Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis taking on Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell. In the mixed doubles action, Jaimee Fourlis and Jason Kubler will vie for the major title as well. And of course, legendary 23-time Grand Slam champion Dylan Alcott was this year's Australian Open finalist and ended his incredible career on Thursday in Melbourne.

"Dylan for me is at the forefront of that," Barty said. "He's inspired a nation, he's inspired the whole globe.

"We were watching his match today and I was with my physio an hour before coming out and when he was saying his acceptance speech we were both crying. I was like shi*, I need to get out here and get ready and get my game on. I just wanted to watch Dylan."

The world No. 1 feels truly inspired by all that he's done for the disabled community and believes he is not only an exceptional player but person. Barty said, "I couldn't be more proud of him" before ending the on-court interview.

Barty admitted she wouldn't be watching Danielle Collins vs. Iga Swiatek, but she's eager and ready to finish her quest on a high note come Saturday.