It's a 6-2, 6-3 lead for Nadal, who has needed 89 minutes to take apart Mikhail Youzhny.

Youzhny seemed to have an opportunity when Nadal needed a visit from the tour trainer to re-wrap his left ankle and foot at 3-2; Youzhny came out after the medical delay and served out at love, seeming to grab some momentum,

He won two points over the next three games, broken at love and totally demoralized by Nadal's defensive, backhand lob that flustered Youzhny at 0-30 and led to three break points.

 

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