Rafa Nadal: "There is no need to hide it, it has been a beating for a long time"

There was some hope that Rafa Nadal could compete against this Novak Djokovic, but the reality has been quite harsh. Up to that 6-1 4-0, the scoreboard was extremely painful, but a push from Rafa made it possible to believe in a potential comeback. The Serbian extinguished any illusion of a comeback and leaves Nadal out of the medal fight in singles.

Passing through the mixed zone, Rafa has no qualms about admitting how superior Djokovic has been today and acknowledges that, currently, he is still quite far from these types of matches. He even uses the word "beating" to describe what was happening until that moment when he had only won one game throughout the match.

Feelings

What could happen has happened. I said it yesterday. It was a match for which I didn't know if I was ready to play at a certain level, and I wasn't. It was a beating for a long time. It must be accepted as such and not hidden. Novak must be congratulated for the high level he has shown. He didn't give me any respite, and I didn't make it hard for him. I couldn't push him back. He was playing very comfortably, in easy positions for him, and against a player like Novak, I am unable to push him back and defend as I did in the past because it gets lost as it has been. 

Analyze a bit further

It's easy to analyze. I didn't play at the level needed to create problems for him. He was at a high level, without making mistakes. I also believe I made it easy for him. The opponent's superiority must be recognized, as well as the fact that I didn't play how I should have played.

From 0-4 to 4-4

There was some reaction in the second set. I raised my level a bit, and he started to make a few more mistakes, but he was tired, and at 4-4, it was a crucial game to change the situation. He was at a higher level than me. At that moment, I managed to create a change, and he felt a bit of the pressure to win. I gave a bit more, but I felt a little tired and served against the wind. I had opportunities to create a change to dream, but I couldn't do it.

Support from the crowd

Every time I play here, I feel at home. I can only appreciate the affection they give me. It is satisfying to feel that affection in the most special place of my career. I can only be thankful. 

Now it's time for doubles

Now, fully committed to the doubles, and then we'll see. I suppose we will play tomorrow against the Dutch. Personally, I will recover as best as possible to give ourselves a chance for a medal.

Decided to play knowing this could happen

I did what we thought we had to do. I feel more or less fine physically. The problem I had is still there, but it doesn't limit me.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rafa Nadal: "No hay que esconderlo, durante mucho rato ha sido una paliza"