(AFP) – World No.1 Rafael Nadal has battled back after dropping the first set to subdue Japan’s 121st-ranked Taro Daniel and reach the third round of the US Open.
Our champ won his ATP-best 51st match of the year by 4-6 6-3 6-2 6-2 over the 24-year-old New York native, who fell to 0-4 against top-10 rivals.
After the match, Rafa said:
It’s a very important victory. It’s true I didn’t play very well tonight but it’s true I’m through to the third round.
I didn’t play very well but tomorrow I will work hard to find better feelings because I know I can do much better.
Rafa will face lucky loser Leonardo Mayer for a place in the last 16.
Image has been converted to black and white.) Rafael Nadal of Spain reacts against Taro Daniel of Japan in their second round Men’s Singles match on Day Four of the 2017 US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on August 31, 2017 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Aug. 30, 2017 – Source: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images North America)
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Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates victory against Taro Daniel of Japan in their second round Men’s Singles match on Day Four of the 2017 US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on August 31, 2017 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Aug. 30, 2017 – Source: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images North America)
Source: AFP, Photos: Getty Images
SOOOOO PLEASED, RAFA, THAT YOU WON!!!!! SIGUE ASI, POR FAVOR!!!!! SI, PUEDES!!!!! VAMOS, RAFA, PARA EL TERCER US OPEN!!!!
Not the best match but it’s ok – a win is an win. Vamos Rafa!
Slow start & loads of unforced errors . But Rafa delivered awesome shots when it mattered . Perhaps the supreme intensity was missing just a wee bit . Rafa rocks ! He is our supreme champ . 👌🙌👌🙌👏👏👏👏👍👍👍👍✌️✌️✌️
Well done Rafa you did a good job and now all the best for the next match.
Love and prayers,
AlaineXXSydneyXXAAustraliaXX