One year ago, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer battled in an epic Australian Open final, with the Swiss rallying to capture the crown. The match set the table for a season in which both players dominated the grand slams, splitting them down the middle at two apiece.

As both legends entered the 2018 season, it appeared that Federer was in form while question marks surrounded Nadal following knee issues at the end of 2017.  This was further amplified when the Spaniard skipped warmup events prior to the Australian Open, despite participating in the Tie Break Tens event.

But after cruising to a 6-1 6-1 6-1 win over Victor Estrella Burgos, Nadal appeared confident and looked to be a contender once again.

“I always have doubts but at the same time I have the confidence that I was ready to start the tournament. That was the case,” said Nadal. “I'm happy for the start, of course. It's a positive start with a good result. If I do months without playing an official match it's always a little bit more difficult.”

And for fans who have been waiting on pins and needles following his injury and changes to his team, his first-round match was a welcome sight.

“I started with positive feelings. That's most important thing for me now. Of course, there are things to improve. But the things that I need to improve, the matches will give me those things.”

For the first time in his career, Nadal entered Melbourne without his uncle Toni by his side. After Toni Nadal decided to turn his focus to the Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Carlos Moya stepped into the role of coach. But as uncle Toni would have it, Nadal will carry on looking to the future, putting in the work with the goal of winning more majors with the new version of his team.

“I have to think about the team that is here. I am happy with it,” he said.

Nadal will face veteran Leonardo Mayer in the second round.