Rublev roars past Nakashima in San Diego opener

Andrey Rublev required just 62 minutes to complete his first match at the 2021 San Diego Open, breezing past Brandon Nakashima in easy fashion.

The top seed dominated his opponent to secure a 6-2 6-1 victory, displaying ruthless aggression as he continuously attacked the American's serve. Rublev was particularly effective when facing a second serve, as Nakashima could only win 2 out of 18 points on those crucial points.

After easily claiming the first set, it looked like a bagel was in the works as Rublev's aggressive baseline play saw him grab a 5-0 lead. However, Nakashima was able to salvage a game, before succumbing to his Russian opponent's onslaught.

The World No.5 faces the winner between Lloyd Harris and sixth seed Diego Schwartzman, whom Rublev defeated in an epic match at the recently concluded Laver Cup.