Rafael Nadal has launched the defence of his Madrid Open tennis title by breezing past Juan Monaco 6-1 6-0, rediscovering his touch on his favourite clay courts after surprise exits in his last two tournaments.
The world number one went out in the quarter-finals at both Monte Carlo and Barcelona last month, but he was back to his best against the 56th-ranked Monaco.
Nadal is gearing up for the French Open later this month at Roland Garros where he has won a record eight titles.
The womens number one Serena Williams remained on track for her 60th career title as she powered past China's Peng Shuai 6-2 6-3.
