US Open 2022: Rafael Nadal extends an eerie series against Richard Gasquet and is in the round of 16

“I raised the level a little today, that’s important for me. If the tournament continues, I can improve a little more,” said Rafael Nadal, very satisfied with his performance at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The four-time US Open winner needed two hours and 17 minutes to complete his task against Richard Gasquet.

In contrast to the second round match against Fabio Fognini, when the superstar made a bad start and was 6-2, 4-2, he came into play perfectly against the Frenchman.

Nadal dominated from the start and won 12 of the first 13 games.

Gasquet only managed to stand up to the 36-year-old in the third set – but it wasn’t enough to win the set.

Nadal now against Tiafoe

Nadal is aiming for his 23rd Grand Slam title overall and his fifth title in New York.

Most recently in Wimbledon he had to give up his hopes before the semi-finals.

Nadal didn’t face Nick Kyrgios again due to an abdominal muscle injury.

Tiafoe brave against Nadal: “Can keep up”

Now he meets the American Frances Tiafoe, who won 7: 6 (9: 7), 6: 4, 6: 4 against the Argentinian Diego Schwartzman.

The 24-year-old has a 0-2 record against Nadal, although both encounters took place in 2019 at the Australian Open and at the Masters in Madrid.

Tiafoe feels much better armed now. “I’m definitely a different player than in 2019, better. I can keep up with his intensity from the first to the last point,” emphasized the world number 26. “I just have to be very aggressive,” said Tiafoe.

(with SID)