Rafael Nadal has insisted that his 7-5 6-3 6-1 defeat to Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals of the French Open was not a surprise result.
It was only the Spaniard's second loss in 11 years and 72 matches at Roland Garros, but he claims that it was overdue.
"It is not a big surprise, no, after a year when I didn't win enough before here. Something that could happen," the 29-year-old told reporters.
"When you see the draw, quarter-finals against Novak, obvious that it is early, a big match like that."
Djokovic will play Andy Murray in the semi-finals after the Scot defeated David Ferrer in four sets in the quarters.
