David Nalbandian is stepping up his preparations for the Australian Open after a seven month injury layoff.

Nalbandian is gradually easing back into competitive action and is playing an exhibition in Bueno Aires this weekend ahead of his return to the ATP tour in a few weeks times.

Nalbandian is scheduled to start 2010 in Auckland followed by the Australian Open a week later.

The Argentine is one of the few players to have reached the semi-finals of all four grand slams. However since making the semis in Melbourne a few years ago back in 2006 he has consistently underachieved at slam level. 

He is unlikely to be a major threat next month but will be a dangerous floater in the draw for any of the big names early on. Nalbandian is wary of the exertion a grand slam will put on his body so early into his return.

"I don't think I'll have problems with the short tournaments but the Grand Slams are two weeks," he said. "I start in Australia, which is not ideal but I feel like I can play. For now I still have the same goals because I think I'm going to feel good. I still have high hopes."
Nalbandian is looking to the Davis Cup as one of his main objectives for 2010. With Juan Martin Del Potro leading their side, they have an excellent shot at regaining the title.