Defending champion Rafael Nadal finally made his return to professional tennis after 200 days, as he took to the courts at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome.

The nine-time champion made quick work of US Open semifinalist Pablo Carreno-Busta, improving to 6-0 in career meetings following his 6-1 6-1 victory.

"It's good to be back on the Tour," said Nadal, in an on-court interview. "I miss the crowds. I played a good match, maybe he was a little bit tired after all his matches in New York."

Nadal is aiming to claim his 36th ATP Masters 1000 title at this event, breaking the record he currently shares with Novak Djokovic.

"It was a perfect start for me." added the Spaniard. "It was solid, good shots on the forehand and backhand. I didn't expect to play that well."

He next faces the winner between Milos Raonic and Dusan Lajovic, with Raonic holding a 1-0 lead over the Serbian.

[embed]https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1306298794686820352[/embed]

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Unlock your ultimate tennis experience—subscribe today for exclusive access to top stories.

Subscribe