Saturday 16 January 2016 12:15, UK
Roger Federer expects the same big-name players to continue their domination of men's tennis ahead of next week's Australian Open.
Only one of the last 24 Grand Slam titles have been won by someone outside the elite group of players - consisting of world No 1 Novak Djokovic, Federer, Andy Murray and Rafael Nadal - together with the more recent addition of Stan Wawrinka.
But the Swiss great believes Djokovic is a cut above the rest following 16 consecutive tournament finals and winning three of the four major titles last year.
"I still think the same guys are playing very well. But, of course, Novak deserves like a little star next to his name right now because he's been doing extremely well," said the 34-year-old.
A resurgent Federer, who is seeded third and landed in Djokovic's half of the draw, plays Georgian world No 117 Nikoloz Basilashvili on Monday.
The 17-time major champion has also shaken off the illness that contributed to him flopping against Milos Raonic in Brisbane last week.
"The cough's gone," Federer said. "The cold is 90 per cent gone. I'm happy."
We will bring you all the news, views and reaction from the Australian Open starting on Monday 18th January.
