Andy Murray says he still "has some pain" in his hip, but is in a "better place" in the build-up to January's Australian Open than last year.
The Scot had hip surgery in January 2018 but ended his return in September to recover fully for the 2019 campaign.
"I need to play matches and see how it feels," said the 31 year old, a five-times Australian Open runner-up.
"Last year when I came here it was tough, I was struggling quite a lot but it feels better than then."
Murray was speaking to reporters before the Brisbane International which begins on Monday and where he will be unseeded.