Nadal returns with victory

Rafael Nadal's comeback appearance lasted just 36 minutes before David Ferrer retired hurt from their second-round match in Montreal.

Spaniard benefits from Ferrer's retirement in Montreal

Rafael Nadal spent just 36 minutes on court in his comeback appearance following a two-and-a-half month injury absence. The world number two was leading his fellow Spaniard David Ferrer 4-3 in the opening set of their second-round encounter at the Rogers Cup in Montreal when Ferrer retired hurt due to a knee injury. Playing his first competitive singles match since a shock loss to Robin Soderling at the French Open, Nadal was quickly into his stride with a break in the opening game. Ferrer, sporting heavy taping on his left knee, did break back in a marathon fourth game but, after being visited twice by the trainer, surrendered his serve in the seventh, prompting the early finish. "I'm very sorry it had to end like this," said Nadal, who had been sidelined by tendinitis in both knees since his defeat to Soderling on May 31. Nadal will play Phillip Petzschner in the third round on Thursday after the German knocked out 15th seed Tommy Robredo 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (7-4). "Philipp is a very strong player and I will have to play well to beat him," added Nadal. "But I'm here to do that this week."