Rafael Nadal battled his way into the quarter-finals of the U.S. Open on Monday with a 6-7, 6-4, 6-3, 6-1 win over Philipp Kohlschreiber. He became the third Spaniard to reach the men’s quarter-finals on Monday, joining Tommy Robredo (who had upset former world number one Roger Federer) and David Ferrer.

“It was very tough tonight with the humid conditions, I was sweating too much,” said Rafa after three hours and 12 minutes on court.”

“I had chances in the first set but couldn’t take them. I feel lucky to be through as it was physically tough.

“But as the match went on I felt more comfortable on my serve.”

Next up for Rafa is Tommy Robredo against whom he has a 6-0 record.

“He’s playing great and he has had similar circumstances like me in coming back from injury.”

“He has come back and is having an amazing tournament…