Unseeded Pablo Cuevas downs Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal has been knocked out of the Rio Open at the semi-final stage.

The former world number one had been gunning for a 100th ATP final appearance, but he was eventually defeated by unseeded Uruguayan Pablo Cuevas 6-7(6) 7-6(3) 6-4.

Nadal claimed the opening set on a tie-break and then went on to deny his opponent two set points in the second, but world number 45 Cuevas eventually managed to win the contest in three-and-a-half hours.

"I fought until the end. I have to accept it and keep working to try to change the dynamic. That's what's happening today and I have to work hard to change it," said the defeated Nadal.

Cuevas will now face Argentina's Guido Pella in this evening's final.