Nadal too good for Schwank

Defending champion Rafael Nadal continued his trouble-free progress at the French Open with a 6-1 6-3 6-4 victory over Eduardo Schwank in the third round this evening.

The Spaniard has had a kind draw – qualifier Schwank is 192 in the rankings - but he has looked in superb form and continued in that vein today.

Nadal has spoken openly about how much more relaxed and happy he is this year compared to 2011, when he nevertheless won a sixth Roland Garros title.

It was evident in his performance today, full of exuberant forehands, and far too good for Schwank.

The first set in particular was a stroll for Nadal, but Argentinian Schwank did improve and at least made a match of it in the second and third sets on Court Philippe Chatrier.

The second seed will expect to be tested next, with either big-serving Canadian Milos Raonic or clay-court specialist Juan Monaco to come in the fourth round.