Rafael Nadal admits that he has grown even more determined to succeed after spending a lengthy spell out of the game through injury.
Nadal booked his place in round three of the US Open with a professional performance, beating Brazilian Rogerio Dutra Silva 6-2 6-1 6-0 in just 92 minutes.
The Spaniard has enjoyed a great run on hard courts this season, winning 17 matches following victories in Indian Wells, Montreal and Cincinnati.
The 27-year-old has shown great drive since returning to tennis on the back of his eight-month absence last year.
Knee injuries have hounded the former world number one throughout the majority of his career and he eventually decided to take a break in order to receive treatment.
Upon his return he claimed the French Open title for the eighth time in his career and demonstrated he was back and raring to go despite a wobble at Wimbledon.
Croatian Ivan Dodig is next up for Nadal at Flushing Meadows as the Majorcan looks to continue building momentum to try and claim a second US Open career title.
Nadal said: “After overcoming a tough situation, then you are ready to compete better than before.
“That’s something that I am sure. All my life I played with a lot of passion. I love the sport. I love the competition.
“So I feel very lucky and very happy to be back on the tour and playing well again.”
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