Abu Dhabi, UAE  - Andy Murray remains more excited about his fast-improving Australian Open chances than even the 250,000-dollar prize packet he stands to win in the final with Rafael Nadal at the Capitala Championship in Abu Dhabi.

Murray reached the Saturday title showdown as he beat Roger Federer in three sets at the exhibition.

"It's always a challenge playing Roger," said the Scot, ranked fourth. "I've got the better of him on a few occasions, but in the big one we played, at the US Open final, he beat me pretty badly.

"Hopefully, I'll get him in a Grand Slam one day."

Murray is on track to challenge the elite and many believe his chances for the Open starting January 19 are strong. "It would be nice to become No. 1, but my aim for 2009 is to win a Grand Slam event. I feel the Australian Open is my best chance."

Federer was less than pleased with his initial showing for 2009: "It was quite a good start to the year, but I just could not pull through. Andy has been playing some very good tennis and he carried his form from the end of last year."

Nadal recovered from an early break against Nikolay Davydenko to advance to the final in the desert.

"I was delighted with the way I played today," said the No. 1 who had to end his 2008 season due to knee problems, missing the Masters Cup and Davis Cup final.

"My aim is to be a better player than I was last year and to keep improving. I like my position right now. I'd like to keep it this way as long as possible." (dpa)