Nadal's classy response to shock loss

Rafa Nadal had his 17-match winning streak snapped in stunning fashion against Dominic Thiem, but he was all praise for his young opponent afterwards.

The 6-4 6-3 victory in Rome was a sort of revenge for Thiem, who was beaten by the Spaniard in the Madrid Open final last week.

After Thiem clinched the upset victory, Nadal met him at the net with a classy congratulations and some words of encouragement.

HE'S SMART: Djokovic weighs in on Federer's French Open absence

Then in the aftermath, instead of complain or make excuses, Nadal was sportsmanlike and gracious in defeat.

"He played very aggressive, hitting the ball very strong," Nadal said.

What a win for Thiem! Image: Getty

"The court here is probably the smaller on all the center courts on clay, so that makes the players who play with bigger serve and hitting the ball strong, you know, is a little bit more easier for them to see the option to hit winners.

"So he did it. He played very long. He didn't miss a lot. Played high intensity.

"In general I was not able to push him back. He had the control of the points much more times than me. That's the key of this game."

The 30-year-old, who was seeded fourth, had won consecutive claycourt tournaments in Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid and was aiming for an eighth title at the Foro Italico as he prepares for the French Open in less than two weeks.

"Tomorrow I'll be in Mallorca fishing or playing golf, or another thing. I'm going to rest a little bit, I think I deserve it," said Nadal.

"Then from Monday and Tuesday I will start to prepare for Roland Garros. It's an important event for me.

"If you do things well, you have more chances in Roland Garros. I hope to play my best tennis in Roland Garros."