Rafael Nadal Takes On U.S. Open

Rafael Nadal of Spain plays his match against Bjorn Phau of Germany during Day 1 of the 2008 U.S. Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, Queens, New York on Monday.

The Wimbledon and French Open champ at one point needed to bandage a nasty blister, but eventually won 7-6 (4), 6-3, 7-6 (4).

“I think I need the (crowd) support a little bit this year,” the 22-year-old said. “(But) I still believe it’s an advantage if you know how to win a US Open. It’s a tough tournament to win.”

10+ more pics inside of Rafael Nadal taking on the U.S. Open…