Thiem's 'huge potential' has Rafa ready for replay

PARIS - Rafael Nadal warned of the threat presented by Dominic Thiem's "huge potential" ahead of their clash for a place in Sunday's French Open final.

The Spaniard qualified for the semifinals at Roland Garros for the 10th time on Wednesday after compatriot Pablo Carreno Busta retired with an abdominal injury while trailing 6-2, 2-0.

Thiem is the only player to beat Nadal on clay this season and sealed a return to the last four in Paris with a sensational 7-6 (5), 6-3, 6-0 upset of defending champion Novak Djokovic.