World number one Roger Federer pronounced himself fit, rested and ready to end his season in style with a successful defence of the Masters Cup title.
The winner of three Grand Slam titles and the first man to go a perfect 10-0 in finals in a calendar year, few players in the history of tennis have enjoyed similar campaigns than the silky smooth Swiss.
With 10 titles this season, Federer does not require another victory at eight-player season finale to confirm his status as the most feared player of his generation.
But an 11th win, or a least a strong showing, at the Westside Tennis Club would offer reassurance that the 23-year-old is fully over a nagging thigh strain and ready to carry his momentum into a new season.
Federer returns to action for the first time since injuring his left thigh while preparing for his home tournament in Basel almost a month ago.
Forced to withdraw from the Paris Masters the following week, Federer had expressed concern that the injury might prevent him from defending his title.
FEELING GOOD
However, the Swiss said he has not been bothered by the strain during training in Houston and ruled himself fit and anxious to return to the court.
"I'm feeling good," said Federer, who will open round robin play on Monday against French Open champion Gaston Gaudio.
"I've been practicing since Monday here in Houston and before that I hadn't played for two weeks.
"I had good preparation, no pain in my leg. So I'm feeling good.
"I'm really looking forward to this coming week."
That will not be good news for the rest of the elite player field, who will battle Federer for a share of the $4.45 million purse.
The coveted number one world ranking will not be up for grabs this year, Federer have locked up top spot long ago.
Number one, however, is firmly on Federer's mind as he enters this tournament, which he plans to use as a springboard into next season, where is goal is the continuing domination of the men's game.
"I'm number one in the world so everyone wants to beat 'that guy'," Federer said.
"Luckily for me I've already locked up number one, which puts quite a bit of pressure away.
"I can really just focus on the defence of my title.
"Coming back from injury it almost seems like the next year's season is already starting. I'm trying to keep the confidence and keep the momentum of 2004."
