Federer out to prove point but Djokovic will claim Australian Open, says Jim Courier

Former American tennis player Jim Courier has said that Swiss ace Roger Federer will be out to prove that he is not yet finished as a force in world tennis, although he backed defending champion Novak Djokovic to claim his fifth Australian Open title.

Courier, who will form part of Channel 7's commentary team for the Open, also backed favourite and world number one Serena Williams to take the women's crown

According to Fox Sports, Courier said that it is difficult to see Federer finishing on top at Melbourne Park although he would be trying to silence the critics who are ready to bury his career, adding that the biggest problem for Federer in 2013 was his lack of confidence in key moments, along with his troublesome back.

Courier further said that for 2014 to be a better year, a healthier version of Federer needs to reappear, adding that as it would be the 17-time Major champion's first year in a long time, it would be difficult for him to lift the trophy this season.

Courier, a four-time grand slam champion, said that he expected world No.1 Rafael Nadal to play Djokovic in the men's final, although he backed Djokovic to lift the title as he was able to beat the Spaniard twice in the fall and thus the momentum in their rivalry is on his side.