Rafael Nadal dominated Damir Dzumhur 6-1 6-3 6-1 to set up a fourth round clash with Diego Schwartzman at the Australian Open.
The Spaniard started the match with ferocity as he moved the Bosnian around the court with some stunning forehands. Some Dzumhur errors and double faults was one of the many reasons why Nadal raced to an early 5-0 lead. Despite winning a consolation game, the 28th seed was powerless as the top seed wrapped up the opening set in 23 minutes.
The second set was a much better set of tennis from Dzumhur’s point of view as he managed to introduce more and more dropshots into the match. The Bosnian even broke Nadal to level the set up at 2-2. However the world number one knew that he was capable of breaking again and achieved this in the next game for a 3-2 lead. Dzumhur failed to create another break point opportunity as Nadal eased into a two sets to love lead.
The third set saw some long games including some extended rallies, which was an improvement from Dzumhur’s point of view. However the result was the same as another early break saw Nadal cruise to a 2-0 lead. The Bosnian decided to play with freedom as his exit from the tournament loomed as he showed off his finesse at the net. However a second break of serve secured the match as Nadal sealed his place into the second week of the Australian Open.
The pleasing thing for Nadal this week is that he has conserved a lot of energy and is yet to drop a set at this year’s tournament. All the concerns regarding the knee seem to have disappeared and he is in top form as he looks to win his second Australian Open title.
The Spaniard will now face 24th seed Diego Schwartzman next, who defeated Alexandr Dolgopolov in four sets to advance to the fourth round.
