Novak Djokovic says he was ‘not surprised at all’ by Rafael Nadal’s recovery from injury at the French Open

Novak Djokovic denied that Rafael Nadal’s ability to come back from injury had surprised him during their epic French Open quarter-final.

Nadal’s run to the last four has come against the pre-tournament backdrop of retirement talk as a result of the Majorcan’s exit from the Italian Open with a recurrence of a chronic foot injury that has dogged him throughout his career.

The Spaniard has – unexpectedly – appeared rejuvenated in Paris, but Djokovic said he had known better than to count out his long-time rival.

Speaking in his post-match press conference – which he attended almost immediately after walking off court past 1am local time – Djokovic said: “I didn’t see any problems.

“I’m not surprised at all. It’s not the first time that he is able – a few days after he’s injured and barely walking – to come out 100% physically fit.

“He’s done it many times in his career, so I’m not surprised.”

Djokovic – speaking so soon after such a painful defeat – would have been within his rights to feel emotional about the outcome, but he was magnanimous and praised Nadal, while also lamenting his own missed chances.

He said: “In a match like this, you go through highs and lows in your game, but also emotionally.

“I lost to a better player today. Had my chances. Didn’t use them. That’s it. Over four hours’ battle, and I have to accept this defeat.

“He [Nadal] showed why he’s a great champion. Staying there mentally tough and finishing the match the way he did. Congrats to him and his team.

“No doubt he deserved it.”

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