Nadal realistic about Federer challenge ahead of Aussie Open

SYDNEY – World number two Rafael Nadal is confident of playing well at the Australian Open but not well enough to beat Roger Federer.

Nadal has an excellent record against the Swiss maestro, defeating him six times in nine matches, but Federer won the last two meetings in last year’s Wimbledon final and Masters Cup semis in the course of his magnificent 2006 season. “I don’t think I can challenge Roger at the moment,” the 20-year-old Spaniard told Reuters.”Roger is the best by far.He is at another level.”Just look at the numbers, Roger’s are so impressive and it’s just unbelievable.”Nadal said he was trying not to think too much about the world number one and defending Australian Open champion, focusing instead on his own performances.”I am only trying to improve my game, and specifically those parts of my game that will help me play better on surfaces other than clay,” he said.Nadal missed last year’s Australian Open due to injury but enjoyed his two previous appearances in the tournament, reaching the third and fourth rounds before losing to local favourite Lleyton Hewitt, including a five-set thriller two years ago.Nampa-Reuters”I don’t think I can challenge Roger at the moment,” the 20-year-old Spaniard told Reuters.”Roger is the best by far.He is at another level.”Just look at the numbers, Roger’s are so impressive and it’s just unbelievable.”Nadal said he was trying not to think too much about the world number one and defending Australian Open champion, focusing instead on his own performances.”I am only trying to improve my game, and specifically those parts of my game that will help me play better on surfaces other than clay,” he said.Nadal missed last year’s Australian Open due to injury but enjoyed his two previous appearances in the tournament, reaching the third and fourth rounds before losing to local favourite Lleyton Hewitt, including a five-set thriller two years ago.Nampa-Reuters