US Open: Rafael Nadal bloodied but overcome Fabio Fognini, Grigor Dimitrov crashes out 

Like in his previous match, the Italian rushed to take a 4-2 lead, and Nadal failed to find rhythm early into the game. It was reminiscent of Fognini's performance against the Spaniard at Arthur Ashe Stadium seven years ago.

Shortly after, Nadal regained his footing and was leading 3-0 in the fourth set, but he hurt himself with his racket when it struck the court and bounced back acutely. 

It required medical intervention, and the 22-time Grand Slam champion lay on the ground with closed eyes. Nadal sealed the match victory when Fognini made his 60th unforced error that involved the players delivering 15 breaks of serve and 11 double faults.

After the match, Nadal said, "For more than one-and-a-half hours I was not competing, it was one of my worst starts ever. When this happens, hopefully not too often, you have to stay positive and stay patient. The match is long."

Now, the Spanish maestro will encounter Richard Gasquet, who thrashed Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic 6-2 6-4 4-6 6-4 to cruise to the third round. Nadal has an 18-0 record against the Frenchman.

36-year-old Richard Gasquet thrashes Miomir Kecmanovic

Richard Gasquet has advanced to the third round of the US Open after besting Croatian Miomir Kecmanovic in four sets 6-2 6-4 4-6 6-4. The former world number seven is currently ranked 91, but he quickly dominated his younger opponent. 

He took the first set comfortably, and his accuracy prompted the Croatian to play deep. In the second set, Gasquet pressed his opponent to make more errors and took advantage of them. 

The third set witnessed the 23-year-old bouncing back with spectacular attacking shots against Gasquet. Kecmanovic denied the Frenchman of a three-setter victory. 

The 36-year-old preyed on his young opponent's unforced errors in the fourth set and won the match. 

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