Rafael Nadal Defeats Karen Khachanov with Ease in 3rd Round of 2017 Wimbledon

Rafael Nadal made short work of Karen Khachanov to progress through the third round of Wimbledon 2017, completing a straight-sets victory on Friday.

The Spanish legend won 6-1, 6-4, 7-6 (3), sweeping to the win with little fuss and minimal resistance on Centre Court.

Khachanov rallied late in the day but didn't have the fortitude to steal a set.

ESPN Stats and Info highlighted Nadal's latest record:

Nadal was fluid and precise with his striking as his Russian opponent struggled with the tempo and pace.

The Spaniard rushed to a 4-0 lead in the first, with Khachanov unable to hold his serve against world-class tennis.

Nadal wrapped up the set, 6-1, and it was clear he already had a foot in the next round.

Khachanov was quickly in trouble in the second set, losing his serve in the third game to hand Nadal an advantage.

The icon's forehand was dominant from the bassline, and Nadal cantered to a 2-0 lead after completing the set, 6-4.

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Khachanov attempted to get to the net to vary his game, but his movement gave Nadal targets to hit passing shots with authority.

The Russian kept pace with his illustrious opponent in the third, carving out a 4-3 lead to surprise the watching crowd on Centre Court.

Khachanov missed a chance of break point in the eighth game, and Nadal made no mistake as he levelled proceedings once again.

The Russian passed up a further break point to win the set, leading to a tiebreak to decide the outcome.

Nadal was ruthless at the end of the match, winning the tiebreak 7-3 as Khachanov limped out.