Nadal powers to opening victory

US OPEN
Venue: Flushing Meadows, New York Date: 31 August - 13 September

The US Open is the only Grand Slam title to elude Nadal

World number three Rafael Nadal was in fine form on his return to Grand Slam action as he swept past Richard Gasquet to reach the US Open second round.

The third seed, who missed Wimbledon with tendonitis in both knees, powered to a 6-2 6-2 6-3 victory.

Nadal was always in control against the erratic Gasquet and will face Germany's Nicolas Kiefer next.

Roger Federer continues his quest for a sixth straight title against Simon Greul in Wednesday's first night match.

Earlier, France's Gael Monfils, the 13th seed, cruised into the second round with a 6-1 6-4 6-3 win over compatriot Jeremy Chardy.

And former champion Marat Safin bowed out of his final Grand Slam with a straight-sets defeat by Austria's Jurgen Melzer.

But all eyes were on Nadal, and the condition of his knees, when he emerged on court at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The last time the 23-year-old completed in a major, he saw his four-year French Open reign ended in the fourth round at Roland Garros and, during his enforced absence, he also lost his number one ranking.

His opponent Gasquet has also just returned to the Tour, following a two-month suspension after he tested positive for cocaine.

Gasquet has played only two matches since returning and he was far too rusty to trouble Nadal, who did not have to face a single break point as he eased through.