Rafael Nadal to snatch top spot back

Rafael Nadal has set his sights on reclaiming the number one spot in the world tennis rankings next year.

The Spaniard has relinquished the accolade to Serbian pro Novak Djokovic, who won four Grand Slams this year.

"For sure you have to set yourself some goals in the short term, but the long term goal is always to keep improving my tennis and try to keep having chances to challenge for the big titles to compete for the first position in the rankings," ESPN quotes Nadal as saying.

"But if you are not healthy the rest of the things are impossible so I'm always crossing my fingers to stay healthy."

The 25-year-old had a satisfying year after retaining the French Open and equalling Bjorn Borg's six titles, but failed to claim a trophy away from the clay courts.