Rafael Nadal in brutal form as he effortlessly blasts his way into Australian Open second round
Rafael Nadal made short work of Hugo Dellien as he started his Australian Open campaign in typically dominant fashion.
Nadal was in total control from the very first minute as the Bolivian struggled to find anything in his arsenal capable of hurting the world number one.
He was in no mood for charity, though, and eased himself to a ruthless 6-2, 6-3, 6-0 win in Rod Laver Arena.
Nadal is chasing both a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title and a record-breaking second career slam in Australia, and couldn’t have really gotten off to a better start.
“It’s a positive start,” Nadal said. “What you want in the first round is to win, and straight sets is better.”
The top seed will play the winner of Argentine Federico Delbonis and Portuguese Joao Sousa in the second round, neither of whom have ever beaten him.
Elsewhere, it was a solid session for the more fancied players, with Marin Cilic, Milos Raonic, and Dominic Thiem all safely progressing into round two.
There were also impressive wins for Diego Schwartzman and Roberto Bautista Agut in a busy day session due to Monday’s rain.
Follow us on Twitter @T365Official and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Australian OpenVictoria Azarenka pens thoughtful letter to tennis community urging them to ‘accept, adapt’
Victoria Azarenka calls for calm.
-
Australian OpenNick Kyrgios brands Novak Djokovic a ‘tool’ following Australian Open quarantine squabble
Nick Kyrgios again unimpressed by Novak Djokovic.
-
Kevin PalmerEXCLUSIVE – Leon Smith reflects on coaching Andy Murray and the role of the inspirational Judy Murray
Leon Smith looks back on his days coaching Andy Murray.
-
Tennis NewsAlexander Zverev goes ‘back to his family roots’ as he leaves Roger Federer’s management firm
Alexander Zverev confirms changes to his team.
-
NewsTennis players’ isolation complaints given short shrift by Victorian Premier
A total of 72 players are unable to leave their rooms.
-
ATP TourKevin Anderson on potential ATP-WTA merger: ‘There have been no real discussions’
No ATP-WTA merger talks underway.
-
Australian Open‘Players upset’ over privileges afforded to Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Dominic Thiem
“It’s not apples and apples here, but apples and pears.”
-
-
NewsMore Australian Open players go into isolation taking number up to 72
Forty-seven had already been quarantined.
-
NewsHow Australian Open players are keeping themselves occupied in quarantine
A total of 47 players forced to quarantine.