Federer at 2014 crossroads, Serena eyes history

Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray open the 2014 season in Abu Dhabi on Thursday with Roger Federer hoping his absence isn't an indicator of more misery ahead.

World No 1 Nadal provided the comeback story of 2013, winning 10 titles, including a record eighth French Open and a second US Open, which took his majors haul to 13.

Djokovic defended his Australian Open crown while Murray claimed Britain's first Wimbledon men's title in 77 years.