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Nadal admits to dip in level

Rafael Nadal found Novak Djokovic too good at Wimbledon © Getty Images

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Rafael Nadal believes Novak Djokovic's dominance in 2011 is a result of his and Roger Federer's level dipping from the highs of previous years.

Nadal picked up the French Open title in Paris, but has lost seven out of 10 finals this year - notably at Wimbledon and the US Open to Djokovic.

The Spaniard feels he has been far more consistent this season, but believes he has to find improvement in his game if he is to retain his place at the top of the sport.

"I believe Rafa 2010 had something more special than Rafa 2011, especially in tough situations," Nadal said ahead of his opening match at the Shanghai Masters. "Winning or losing depends on very, very, very small things. And probably these very, very small things I did a little bit better in 2010 than 2011.

"I don't think the level has been better than 2010 or 2009. I think it has been similar. For my part and Roger's part a little bit worse for the moment.

"I played worse than last year. I was very consistent, probably even more consistent than last year, but I played a little bit worse, I think. I think Roger played well, but he lost a few matches that in the past he never would have lost."

Nadal will likely look back on 2011 as a season frustration, but he will take the lessons on board ahead of next season.

"If you are not improving every year more and more, your chances are less. I always try to improve and play better and better. That's the goal and that's what I have to keep doing if I want to keep being here for a long time.

"The only thing that is going through my mind now is I have enough illusion to keep practising hard, enough motivation to keep trying my best and to keep finding solutions to be a better player for next year."

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