Rafael Nadal beats Denis Kudla in straight sets victory in Mexico

Rafael Nadal made a winning return to the court with a straight-sets victory in Mexico in his first match since claiming his 21st Grand Slam at the Australian Open.

Nadal defeated American Denis Kudla 6-3 6-2 in the first round of the Mexican Open in Acapulco, bringing his winning streak to 11 – the equal best start to an ATP Tour during his career.

It was a comfortable triumph for the three-time Acapulco champion, as Kudla struggled to keep up and ended the match without a break point.

“It has been a positive start, a good victory in straight sets. That’s always very positive for the confidence,” Nadal told ATP after his win.

“I think I played a very solid match, a good effort today. Of course there are a couple of things that I can do better, but in general terms, I played well so I can’t complain at all.”

Back to back wins for @RafaelNadal