Rafael Nadal started his bid for a fourth US Open title with a comprehensive 6-3 6-2 6-2 win over John Millman in the first round.
The Spaniard, 33, hoisted the trophy aloft at Flushing Meadows in 2010, 2013 and 2017. And he has a great chance of lifting it again this year based on his current level of performance.
Nadal found form when he won Rome back in May. He has maintained that momentum ever since, and it has enabled him to win the French Open and the Rogers Cup and to reach the semi-final of Wimbledon.
Nadal dominates Millman throughout
From the first point of the match against Millman, the World No.2 looked totally focused. He dealt with everything the Australian threw at him and never looked in any kind of trouble at any time.
In the first set, Nadal kept things simple. He served well and broke the World No.60 in the fourth game to take it 6-3 in 43 minutes.
The Spaniard attacked more in the second set. He took apart Millman’s second serve and broke twice to achieve a 6-2 scoreline.
By this stage, it really seemed as if Nadal was moving up through the gears. The third set added to that impression, as the World No.2 struck more winners and sought to dominate points on a more regular basis.
This approach enabled the Spaniard to charge into a 4-0 lead. Shortly after establishing that advantage, the 18-time Grand Slam champion clinched a comfortable victory.
“It’s very special to be back in the night session on this Arthur Ashe Stadium,” Nadal said in his on-court interview. “It was 6-3 6-2 6-2 but it took 2 hours and 10 minutes and there were tough points.”
He continued, “His movements are great. He showed last year what he is able to do when he is playing well, and I came on court with a lot of respect. I think I played a solid first match and I am very happy with the victory.”
Nadal wishes Murray well in Mallorca
After the serious questions, interviewer quizzed the Spaniard about the Rafael Nadal Open taking place this week in his native Mallorca. Nadal grinned with embarrassment when he was asked what it was called.
“I’m happy to hold a great event at my home,” the World No.4 said. “And I’m very happy to have Andy Murray there. That’s great news for us, and for him and for the world of sport, and I wish him the very best.”
He continued, “I texted Andy a couple of days ago and offered him the boat if he wants to go out. He has practised in the academy before, and he knows that, with a text message to me, anything I can offer him will be ready.”
Finally, Nadal added, “It’s great news that Andy is back on a tennis court playing singles. After a lot of problems and suffering in the last couple of years, I’m especially happy for him.”
