Rafael Nadal beats Sam Groth in straight sets to reach French Open second round

24 May 2016 12:53

Rafael Nadal kick-started his drive for a 10th French Open title by demolishing big-serving Australian Sam Groth in straight sets at Roland Garros.

Fourth seed Nadal prevailed 6-1 6-1 6-1 to book a second-round meeting with either Facundo Bagnis or Kenny De Schepper.

Only Roger Federer in 2009 and Stan Wawrinka last year have broken Nadal's stunning string of Roland Garros triumphs dating back to 2005.

Clay court king Nadal had insisted his French Open preparations had not been dented after his quarter-final defeat to Novak Djokovic in Rome's Internazionale BNL d'Italia.

And the 29-year-old duly set about proving his sharpness with a peremptory dismissal of power merchant Groth on Suzanne-Lenglen Court.

Nadal posted an early entry for shot of the tournament with a between-the-legs passing winner late on in the final set.

Source: PA