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Paris (Reuters): Reigning champion Rafael Nadal bludgeoned his way into the French Open third round with a 6-2 6-1 6-1 defeat of outclassed Argentine Guido Pella yesterday.
With rain showers forecast at Roland Garros, the 31-year-old wasted no time on Court Suzanne Lenglen after saving four break points in the first game against the 78th-ranked Pella.
Once that early danger had been snuffed out, Nadal offered up a master class against his fellow left-hander, and his forehand was too hot for Pella to handle.
The Spanish world number one has now won his last 27 sets at Roland Garros, having captured a 10th title last year without dropping a set.
Next in the firing line for Nadal is Frenchman Richard Gasquet.