A win in the Australian Open final against Rafael Nadal on Sunday will give the 27-year-old 14 Grand Slam titles and will set him alongside American legend Pete Sampras on the all-time list of major winners.

It is a milestone along with the number of consecutive weeks he spent as number one that Federer rates above all else.

"It's an unbelievable opportunity for me, of course, not being number one anymore, trying to beat the number one in the world and getting the 14th Grand Slam," he enthused.

"This is where I won the Grand Slam to become number one in the world back in 2004, so I've always had a special liaison with this tournament.

"The stage is set for a great match. I hope we can live up to them like we did in Wimbledon. I think it's going to be a close match. I think he's playing well, so I'm looking forward to a great match and then hopefully equal Pete's record."

Federer believes Nadal will not be unduly affected by his mammoth effort in his Australian Open semi-final against Fernando Verdasco.

The two Spanish left-handers slugged it out for a record-breaking five hours and 14 minutes before the world number one claimed a five-set win to set up the final every tennis fan was hoping for. "I don't think Rafa will struggle too much to get over this kind of a match," said Federer, who had a comfortable win against Andy Roddick in his semi on Thursday night.

"He's had an easy tournament so far. This was the tough one. I'm sure he's going to get over it."

Meanwhile, Nadal has hailed Federer as the favourite. "He had Friday off and only three sets in his semi-final so now, for sure, he's the favourite but I'll try my best" said Nadal.