Kyrgios had a running battle with the chair umpire after a rough call in the opening game of the match.

The call unsettled the 22-year-old and he was unable to halt the World No.1 who congratulated Kyrgios on a great tournament.

"Congrats to Nick for a great week," Nadal said.

"It was one month and a half ago, maybe less, that you beat me in Cincinnati so you're doing great.

"Keep going and playing that way and of course you're going to have a lot of success in the sport. You have a great future."

Kyrgios was in sublime form for much of the tournament after a strong second half to the season.

"Congratulations to Rafa again and I'll be back," Kyrgios said.

"It's been an amazing week for me. First time in Beijing and to make the final is pretty good. I played some great tennis.

"It wasn't to be today. He played unbelievable, but he's one of the greatest of all time."