Rafael Nadal eases past Laslo Djere in Melbourne opener

Rafael Nadal was untroubled during a 6-3 6-4 6-1 success against Serbia’s Laslo Djere

Rafael Nadal powered to victory over Laslo Djere. Picture: Rick Rycroft

Rafael Nadal allayed fears over a back problem with a straightforward victory against Laslo Djere in the first round of the Australian Open.

Nadal did not play in any of Spain’s ATP Cup matches last week and gave a downbeat assessment of his fitness ahead of the tournament.