Nadal not optimistic about ATP Finals chances after Paris exit

The 22-times Grand Slam champion's defeat in Paris came in his first singles match since the U.S. Open fourth round in September, after which he took time off for the birth of his first child.

Rafa Nadal said he does not expect to be in good enough shape to mount a serious challenge at the season-ending ATP Finals after being beaten by Tommy Paul at the Paris Masters on Wednesday.

Rafael Nadal of Spain returns the ball to Tommy Paul of the United States during their second round match of the Paris Masters tennis tournament (AP)

Nadal was up a set and a break against the American but was unable to seal the win, eventually losing 3-6 7-6(4) 6-1.

The 22-times Grand Slam champion's defeat in Paris came in his first singles match since the U.S. Open fourth round in September, after which he took time off for the birth of his first child.

He has never won the ATP Tour's finale, which runs from Nov. 13-20 in Turin this year, though he has reached the final twice.

"I'm excited about playing, even if it hasn't been the perfect couple of months for me," Nadal said.

"It's true that for the last five months I didn't spend enough days on the Tour. I don't even say competing on a tennis court. I say on the Tour. Practicing with the guys. That's what I need ...