PARIS: Rafael Nadal has played down his role as favourite for an historic eighth French Open title and expects David Ferrer to make the most of his maiden Grand Slam final appearance on Sunday.

Defending champion Nadal will become the first man to win the same major eight times if he beats compatriot Ferrer who has made his first Grand Slam final at the 42nd time of asking.

"I don't feel favourite. I feel that I am a finalist," said Nadal.

Despite his modesty, the 27-year-old Spaniard, who was in tears after his marathon semi-final victory over world number one Novak Djokovic, has everything stacked in his favour.

He has won 58 out of 59 matches at Roland Garros and boasts a 19-4 winning record over Ferrer. Sixteen of those wins have been on clay.

The 31-year-old Ferrer has won just one of their claycourt encounters and that was their first career meeting in 2004 when Nadal was only 16.

The Paris weather, which has been particularly fickle this year, looks certain to also play a major role with heavy showers expected Sunday afternoon and evening.

That could force the final into the third Monday as appened last year when Nadal defeated Djokovic for his seventh title.

Nadal has been the sensation of 2013, winning 42 of 44 matches and six titles since his return in February from a seven-month injury lay-off to rest his troublesome knees. (AFP)