Nadal survives tough test to reach third round

NEW YORK (Reuters) – Second seed Rafael Nadal came through
a tough test of his U.S. Open credentials on Thursday as he
beat Peru’s Luis Horna 6-4 4-6 6-4 6-2 to reach the third
round.

The Spaniard, who has never been beyond the third round at
Flushing Meadows, coped well with an inspired Horna before
clinching victory in two hours 43 minutes.

“It was a very tough match,” Nadal said.

“Luis was playing very well with his forehand and serve so
I am very happy with this victory.”

Nadal looked set for an easy victory when he led by a set
and a break but world number 61 Horna produced some outstanding
tennis to break back in the sixth game and again in the 10th to
level the match.

The French Open champion saved two break points when
serving for the third set and then eased through the fourth to
set up a clash with Frenchman Gael Monfils or Wesley Moodie of
South Africa.