Rafael Nadal happy with triumphant Wimbledon return

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It marked a triumphant return for the number two seed who missed Wimbledon last year because of a knee injury.

After Roger Federer's five set epic on Centre Court on Monday it was business as usual with Nadal's game looking in perfect working order.

His most powerful weapon, his forehand, proved especially effective passing Nishikori several times.

Nishikori was making his Centre Court debut and although he by no means disgraced himself he simply was no match for Nadal's slick tennis. The 24-year-old Spaniard will fancy his chances of adding to his recent triumph on clay at the French Open.

Smiling broadly after the game Nadal said it was "very special" to be back at Wimbledon after two year absence – he of course won in 2008.

He said: "For me it was a very special moment to be back on Centre Court. It's unbelievable and I enjoyed it a lot. It's my favourite tournament.

"The crowd make me feel at home all the time. It's important for me to adapt quickly [after the French Open]. I love the grass I enjoy playing here."

The world number one cruised through the first set and although he was made to work harder to claim the second he knew when to raise his game. Nadal needed one break of serve to take the second, forcing his opponent into making errors.

Nishikori, ranked 189 in the world, did mange to ruffle Nadal's feathers briefly in the final set when he sent him sprawling chasing a drop shot and earning a break of serve. But the 20-year-old from Japan suffered an immediate reverse when his serve was then broken.

By now the aces began to flow more freely from the Nadal racket and he motored his way to victory. If anything the lack of drama gave Centre Court a sleepier feel than yesterday but Nadal was given a warm hand after claiming his victory. Nadal is back.