'Djokovic favourite to achieve all-time Grand Slam record' - says Nadal

Rafael Nadal will head to the Australian Open with low expectations after his latest injury lay-off but still believes he can challenge for the biggest prizes in the sport.

The Spaniard will be back on court on Friday at the exhibition Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi when he takes on Andy Murray, who on Thursday beat compatriot Dan Evans.

It will be the first time Nadal has been seen in a match since a defeat to Lloyd Harris in Washington in early August, which was his first tournament since withdrawing from Wimbledon and the Olympics.

The 35-year-old has been battling a left foot problem and accepts he has a long road in front of him if he is to return to top form.

IMAGE: AP