Nadal off to winning start

Rafael Nadal got the defence of his Wimbledon crown off to a winning start as he saw off the challenge of the unheralded American Michael Russell on Centre Court this afternoon.

The top seed brushed past the veteran world number 90 in straight sets, winning 6-4 6-2 6-2, and finding his rhythm after a wobbly opening which saw him suffer the first break of serve.