"As a competitor I really wanted this match," the Australian said at a press conference the day after Nadal announced his withdrawal due to abdominal pain.
"My first reaction was disappointment. Kyrgios explained that all my energy was focused upon my match against him, how I was going tactically to face him, and the emotions I would feel when I entered court.
"We had so many great fights. We have both beaten each other once. "I really wanted to see the third chapter," Kyrgios stated again.
"We want to see a player such as him, so important to our sport, withdraw (...) We hope he recovers and I am certain that I will again play against him in a large tournament," said Kyrgios, who nevertheless finds it "quite pleasant" to be in final.
He had previously supported Nadal via social media.
"Different players, different personalities. We hope your recovery goes well, and we all wish you a speedy recovery. See you next time, he posted on Instagram.
Kyrgios and Nadal were set to meet on Friday in London's semi-finals. However, Nadal, already a winner of 22 Grand Slam tournaments, including two at Wimbledon (2008) and 2010, was forced to forfeit after sustaining an abdominal tear. He won his quarter-final against Taylor Fritz, however.
The final will be contested by the 27-year-old Australian, who will also get an extra day of rest.
