Rafael Nadal (Photo : Getty Images)
Rafael Nadal will test his improved form at the 2016 US Open when he meets Russia's Andrey Kuznetsov in the third round of the tournament on Friday.
Nadal became the first man to win under the roof at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, defeating Italy's Andreas Seppi in straight sets 6-0 7-5 6-1. Despite the troublesome left wrist, Nadal will hope to progress better as the King of Clay eyes a spot in the last 16 stage of the final Grand Slam event of the year.
"The real thing is (it is) not a big thing be in the third round again," Nadal said, reports the Indian Express. "But for sure every match is important. That's my philosophy. That's my way to play every tournament."
Nadal will face Kuznetsov, who advanced into Round of 32 after beating Spain's Albert Ramos Vinolas in straight sets 7-5 6-4 7-6(5). Nadal leads Kuznetsov by 3-0 in their FedEx ATP Head2Head matchup, and has already faced the 25-year-old Russian in two occasions this year. Their last outing was at the ATP World Tour Masters 1000 in Madrid, where Nadal cruised past Kuznetsov, also in Round of 32 of the tournament.
However, Nadal is cautious approaching his next match, believing that Kuznetsov could be a threat to his stint at the US Open.
"Next round is a very tough opponent. I know him well. I played him this year I think at the beginning of the season in Doha," Nadal added. "He's an aggressive player. He has lots of big shots from the baseline and he's very dangerous."
"I need to improve, playing longer, playing higher, changing speeds, changing the rhythm of the ball with the slice, and then every time I need to hit more forehand winners."
The winner between Nadal and Kuznetsov will face either Lucas Pouille of France or Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut. Pouille defeated Swiss Marco Chiudinelli 4-6 3-6 7-6(6) 6-2 6-0, while Bautista Agut came with a four-setter victory over Argentine Federico Delbonis 3-6 6-7(6) 6-4 6-2 6-2.
Live streaming info and score updates
Watch US Open 2016: Novak Djokovic vs Andrey Kuznetsov live via WatchESPN or visit the US Open's official website. Live scores will be available during game days at the US Open's official website.
