US Open: Nadal enjoys straight-sets win over Istomin in first round.

The Spaniard is a twice-winner of tournament - in 2010 and 2013 - but has missed the event twice in the last four years with various ailments.

Indeed, he hasn't made the final of a Slam since the 2014 French Open - but on Monday he looked close to his best. World number 107 Istomin posed a few problems for the 14-time Grand Slam winner, who showed off some hugely impressive shots... not least this staggering passing shot winner:

Nadal, who lost in the bronze medal match at the Rio Olympics but won doubles gold to continue his recovery from a wrist injury, was pleased to cruise through.

“I played a solid match for a lot of time,” Nadal said. “There was a tough moment in the second set but I think I resisted well and I am very happy for the victory. He is always a dangerous player.



By Tom Adams.
Full story at Yahoo News.