Rafael Nadal has singled out Novak Djokovic as his main threat ahead of the Australian Open.

The Spaniard, who has dropped to world number two due to Djokovic's recent dominance, is determined to reach the final in Melbourne following a disappointing semi-final exit to Gael Monfils in Qatar.

"I've been working hard," said Nadal. "I think I'm working the right way. There's Djokovic [to compete with], but there's a lot of fantastic players around and I have to be ready to compete against everybody.

"Last year I lost six important finals against him, but I played finals and that's something really difficult to do. I know how difficult it is to be [in finals] almost all the time."

While there have been doubts around the fitness of the 25-year-old, Nadal has insisted that his recurring shoulder injury is in "perfect condition".

The French Open title holder will take time off in February to recuperate.