Roger Federer has insisted that the thought of retirement has not crossed his mind as he recovers from his ATP World Tour Finals defeat to Novak Djokovic.

The Swiss lost in two sets to the new world number one on Monday, but he has revealed a desire to continue at the highest level.

"I think it's the love for the game, the appreciation I get from the crowds, I guess playing for records from time to time, playing against different types of generations and playing styles," he told reporters.

"I think you need inspiration, motivation from different angles to keep you going because it isn't that simple just to wake up every morning and go for another travel around the world, another practice, another fitness workout, another stretch.

"It's part of the puzzle that makes me motivated, trying to play against them. But Novak, Andy and Rafa are not the only guys out there. I'm trying to play against many other guys."

The Australian Open begins in January.