Abu Dhabi, UAE  - Britain's Andy Murray will take the role of favourite as the ATP season begins Monday in Doha, after defeating Rafael Nadal 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 to win the Abu Dhabi exhibition.

Nadal followed Roger Federer in falling victim to number four Murray at the three-day unofficial start to the 2009 campaign.

It was Murray's second straight victory over Nadal following his US Open semi-final victory in September.

Murray collects 250,000 dollars for the win, which will not count toward his world ranking or his career head-to-head record against Nadal.

"It is a great start to the year," said Murray, who spent a month in Miami concentrating on fitness. "I worked very hard on my fitness and game in November and December.

"Both Rafa and Roger played great tennis. I'm delighted I could beat them. But it was a tough match, and he made me run a lot. This is just the first week of the year, and you do feel it in the body."

Nadal, who joins Murray and Federer in nearby Doha, was playing in Abu Dhabi for the first time in 2009 since ending his season in early November. Murray reached the semi-finals of the Masters Cup while winning five titles in 2008.

"He is really playing well right now," said the Spanish world number one. "He's got a great chance in Australia. I played well, but obviously Andy played a little better." (dpa)