Six-time Australian Open champion Roger Federer admits his expectations of himself are low on the eve of the tournament.
The Swiss, who will next week make his 20th appearance at the event, knows Rod Laver Arena like the back of his hand.
But faced with a first-round matchup against American Steve Johnson, who on Saturday claimed the Challenger Bendigo title, Federer feels slightly underdone in his preparation compared with his opponent.
"I'm happy to be back in Australia. I'm happy to be playing here, of course, I love it," Federer said.
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"Look, it's exactly the tricky situation right now playing somebody who has just played a lot this week. He's ready to go. He's match-ready and I'm not.
"I got to really make sure I get out of the gates quick. Practice has been going well. Had plenty of time to pace myself and do all the things I had to do to get ready. I hope it's enough.
"I know it's a super long road to victory. That's why I got to take it one match at a time. My expectations are quite low.
"No, I'm excited to play Steve. He's a good guy. I think with his old-school playing - big forehand, slice backhand, good serve - I think it's going to be a nice match for me, as well."
Meanwhile, Federer downplayed the smoke threat which has wreaked havoc on the Australian Open qualifiers this week.
A number of players have taken aim at the tournament officials in recent days, after a handful of contestants were forced to play in toxic-level smoke conditions which were caused by the recent bushfires.
Slovenian Dalila Jakupovic hammered Australian Open organsiers for a lack of communication, after she was forced to retire due to having a coughing fit during her qualifying match against Stefanie Voegele.
However, Federer believes the authorities have followed protocols effectively, and isn't predicting the smoke to impact play next week.
"I don't worry. From what we were told yesterday in the player meeting, the Olympic Games and other competitions have the numbers set at 300," the 38-year-old said.
"Ours is set at 200. From that standpoint, I think we're moving in a very safe range. We're not here for six months straight at over 200, 300, you know. That's when maybe effects really become bad.
"No, I don't worry too much, to be honest. I worry more for everybody else who is in the fire, in the smoke."
"Also we can stay indoors all day, quickly go out and play, go back in again. It's not like we're stuck outside at all times.
"Maybe that message comes a bit late after the ATP Cup is over, after qualifying is over.
"I think communication is key from the tournament to the people, to the media, to the fans, to the players, because you do hear it's not safe to be outside, keep your pets inside, close your windows. You have court calls, then you look at the haze and everything, it doesn't look good.
"I think we're going to get through it and it should be fine. It shouldn't move, no."
