Rafael Nadal and Dominic Thiem both cruised into the last 32 of Roland Garros with straight set wins over American Opponents.
Nadal is searching for his 13th Roland Garros title and continued his bid against talented American Mackenzie McDonald.
Although McDonald has a lot power, it wasn’t enough to tear down Nadal’s defences as the Spaniard pummelled the ball around the court.
The American tried everything from shortening points up at the net to using the underarm serve, but nothing worked.
After winning 12 of the first 13 games, Nadal had a tougher match in the third set as the American managed to find rhythm on his serve.
However it was all too easy for the world number two he secured a 6-1 6-0 6-3 victory in 1 hour and 42 minutes.
Despite all the questions about how he would adapt the heavier ball and slower conditions, Nadal seems to be answering those questions in emphatic style.
Nadal’s next opponent will be either Kei Nishikori or Stefano Travaglia as he looks to set up a potential semi-final with Dominic Thiem.
Speaking of the Austrian, he was in action against a resurgent Jack Sock today in a big-hitting match-up.
Sock, who won a masters 1000 in the past and tested Nadal at Roland Garros in the past, looked to be aggressive and take the match to Thiem.
However the recent US Open champion was in full control of the match as his powerful backhand was the focal point to playing smart and precise tennis.
Despite a mini-blip in the third set, having to save three break points, the Austrian cruised to a 6-1, 6-3 7-6(6) victory ensuring his place in the third round.
Thiem will look to get through his matches in quick fashion in what is a tricky draw for the now grand slam champion.
Casper Ruud or Tommy Paul awaits in the last 32, with Diego Schwartzman and Stan Wawrinka as possible obstacles still to come.
