The 37-year-old’s fitness had been in doubt ahead of his last-four clash with Alexander Zverev at the Australian Open.

The Serbian alleged in an interview that food he was served in Melbourne led to him having high levels of lead and mercury.

The Serbian is through to an Olympic final for the first time after beating Lorenzo Musetti.

Nadal waved a lingering goodbye to all sides of Court Philippe Chatrier after the 6-2 6-4 defeat.

Djokovic is recovering from knee surgery to repair an injury sustained at the French Open earlier this month.

Djokovic underwent an MRI scan on Tuesday which revealed a torn medial meniscus in his right knee and forced him to withdraw from the tournament.

Iga Swiatek marched on in the women’s draw, where Coco Gauff awaits.

Djokovic has endured a turbulent build-up to the tournament.

The Italian is the lowest-ranked player to beat the world number one at ATP Masters 1000 or Grand Slam level.

Djokovic had to save four set points on his serve to avoid falling 2-1 down to home favourite Alexei Popyrin on Rod Laver Arena.

Djokovic needs Jannik Sinner to beat Holger Rune to progress in Turin.

The 22-year-old Italian won a three-hour marathon 7-5 6-7 (5) 7-6 (2).