Rafael Nadal tips Dusan Lajovic for rankings rise

Rafael Nadal has backed Dusan Lajovic to rise up the world rankings "very soon".

The pair met in the fourth round of the French Open this afternoon, with Nadal coming out on top 6-1 6-2 6-1.

Despite the relatively straightforward victory, world number one and defending champion Nadal has tipped his Serbian opponent to make progress over the coming years.

"Dusan played a great tournament, the first time you play on this court it is not easy. I wish him all the best for the season, he will be higher in the rankings very soon," said the Spaniard.

Nadal will now take on his compatriot David Ferrer in the quarter-finals at Roland Garros.