Rafael Nadal notched up his sixtieth ATP Tour match win as he saw off qualifier Ruben Bemelmans in the second round of the Thailand Open.

The world number one was in action for the first time since his historic win at the U.S. Open earlier this month and he needed just seventy two minutes to see off the challenger.

Speaking after the match he said: It's never easy in a first match. I had a few days rest after the US Open but I think I am playing well. I'm happy with my match.

It was a commanding performance from the Spaniard in the opening set as he dominated play, breaking twice to take it 6-1.

But in the second set Bemelmans upped his game and Nadal seemed to be struggling with his opponent's serve.

But the world number one and top seed finally found a way through in the ninth game to break for the third time in the match.

He went on to serve for the match, wrapping it up 6-1 6-4.

"Bemelmans played well during some moments and the second set for sure was not easy. It's important to start with a win."

It's been Nadal's serve that has been the most improved aspect of play since the US Open and yesterday it was once again in fine form.

The Spaniard dropped just eight points on serve and converted three of his five break point chances to power into the quarter finals.

He will now face Mikhail Kukushkin, who saw off Oliver Rochus in three sets.Rochus had seen off Juan Martin Del Potro earlier in the tournament but struggled against the barrage of aces that rained down on him.

Kukushkin took the first set before Rochus battled back in a tight second set, edging it to take the match into an exciting decider.

But it was to be Kukushkin who held his nerve as he wrapped up a good 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 victory.

Nadal and Kukushin are currently on court in Bangkok and Nadal leads 3-0 in the second set after taking the first 6-2.

FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw

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  1. by Nethy Lilly 01st Oct 2010 14:36

    Vamos Rafa
    Get this in the bag too