Rafael Nadal begins bid for US Open title with impressive victory

Tuesday 1 September 2015 12:23, UK

Rafael Nadal displayed glimpses of his best form in a first-round win over Borna Coric at the US Open.

The Spaniard is enduring a difficult spell in his career, but began his bid for the final Grand Slam title of the year in impressive fashion, sealing a 6-3 6-2 4-6 6-4 win over the young Croat.

Nadal dished out a humbling lesson to Coric over the opening two sets as he raced into a 2-0 lead at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Coric had won their only previous encounter in Basel last year and the 18-year-old briefly threatened another upset when he broke Nadal to take the match into a fourth set.

But the 14-time major-winner showed his experience at a crucial stage, breaking Coric with a forehand return winner in the seventh game, and secured his progress into the second round.

"I think I played great. The first two sets I played a very high level of tennis," said Nadal. "Then I get a little bit tired. I was sweating a lot.

"He is a great player and has an amazing future."

Defending men's champion Marin Cilic is also safely through to the next stage after a 6-3 7-6 7-6 victory over Guido Pella.

Cilic, who has been hindered by injuries this year, edged out the 94th-ranked qualifier over two tie-breaks.

But 16th seed Gael Monfils has pulled out of the tournament due to a back injury while trailing 2-6 6-4 5-0 against Ukrainian Illya Marchenko.

The Frenchman has struggled with the persistent problem throughout the summer and lost in the second round at Montreal and in the first round in Cincinnati.

"I couldn't play, couldn't move, couldn't do anything," said Monfils.