Rafael Nadal vs. Denis Istomin: Score and Reaction from 2016 US Open

Rafael Nadal got off to a great start at the 2016 U.S. Open with a 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Denis Istomin.

The first-round match was the first Grand Slam appearance for Nadal since he withdrew from the third round of Roland Garros in May with a wrist injury. While Istomin had a few strong moments over the course of the match, the Spanish star remained in control for an impressive opening win in Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Nadal was solid with his serve but mostly excelled at coming through in big moments, winning seven of his 12 break opportunities while saving four of his five chances the other way. Istomin also didn’t help his own cause with seven double-faults and a total of 39 unforced errors in the three sets. 

After the win, Nadal made sure to show fans how excited he is to be back in Flushing Meadows, per ESPN Tennis:

“The most important thing is I am here in NY.”2-time champ Nadal secures spot in R2 w/6-1 6-4 6-2 win over Istomin pic.twitter.com/f7usy28jox

— ESPNTennis (@ESPNTennis) August 29, 2016

The No. 4 seed was on cruise control in the first set, looking like the superstar of old while earning a 6-1 win. Matt Dowell of WACH Fox questioned Istomin’s energy at the time:

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