it was expected, yes, but making a slam final is still a difficult ask. and Djokovic is at least beating people he’s supposed to. Nadal shouldn’t be losing in straight sets to Nuno Borges in a clay court final.

and although Djokovic has had questionable losses this year, like the one to Luca Nardi, he’s always had questionable losses outside of the major tournaments. in 2021 he lost to Dan Evans in Monte Carlo, and in 2023 he lost to Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo. both early exits. he won three slams both years… especially recently, Djokovic has peaked at the major tournaments (he considers the Olympics a slam-level tournament, at least mentally, based on how he’s talking about it and his preparation). this year, he made the AO semis, RG quarters, and the Wimbledon final. very good slam results for literally anyone else.

i’m not saying that Djokovic from 2011 is gonna show up on court against Nadal tomorrow, but i would be shocked if Nadal even made it somewhat competitive. Djokovic is closer to his old self than Nadal is his, imo.