PREVIEW: Federer, Nadal cross rackets on ATP finals practise court

By Bill Scott Nov 21, 2009, 12:40 GMT

London - Roger Federer got a quick look at the current state of rival Rafael Nadal as the pair had a rare hit-up Saturday, the day before the start of hostilities at the ATP World Tour Finals.

While the Swiss and the Spaniard, top two in the world, are good friends off the court, it's rare for them to train together.

A court set up in the lobby of the London East End indoor venue could prove particularly popular during the week with fans who can get a close-up of the stars with the training court located in a high-traffic spot indoors.

Back on his comfortable world number one position in the rankings, Federer admits that his goal for the eight-man event which begins Sunday is nothing less than total domination - ending the season on a high after picking up a first trophy at Roland Garros and claiming a sixth Wimbledon title after losing it in 2008 to Nadal.

There is a threat from Nadal, with the Spaniard able to seize the year-end top spot should he win the trophy next Sunday.

'I'd be lying if I said I was just hoping to play well,' said Federer. 'I'm here to win the tournament and to try to stay number one in the world. That's obvious.

'But it's not going to be easy for me or for Rafa to get it (number one ranking). I can just try my best and see where it takes me.'

Federer starts with Spain's Fernando Verdasco in a Group A match, which follows Andy Murray's opening duel with US Open winner Juan Del Potro.

Nadal has a Monday start and a psychological battle as he plays Swede Robin Soderling, who knocked him out of the French Open last May in the fourth round for a first-ever defeat at the venue after winning four trophies in succession.

London is a major comfort zone for Federer, but the Swiss says that playing at the East End indoor venue is not the same as competition at the All England Club during the summer on grass.

'It's always nice to be back here and it's going to be a great end to the season,' he said diplomatically.