The 9-time French Open champion breezed past Sam Groth of Australia 6-1 6-1 6-1 in just under 80 minutes in a characteristically flawless performance.
Following Tuesday’s early shock in the Women’s draw with number 3 seed Angelique Kerber crashing out in the first round, Rafael Nadal’s start to yet another French Open campaign saw not a spot of trouble as he eased past the world number 100 in much beyond than simply a one-sided affair.
The Spaniard was ruthless, making Sam Groth have to battle for the only 3 games he won in the entire match. A faultless performance from the 4th seed combined with a lowly contest from the Aussie meant it was only going to go one way.
Nadal showed his brilliance and sank his opponent in the third set with a stunning ‘hot-dog’ between the legs passing shot in response to a lob from Groth, which left the 28-year-old Australian without a glimpse of hope.
With a more than comprehensive 6-1 6-1 6-1 victory, the 14-time Grand Slam champion will now most likely face Facundo Bagnis of Argentina who leads Frenchman Kenny De Schepper by 2 sets to 0.
