Australian Open: Rafael Nadal eases past Victor Estrella Burgos in one-sided opener

The world number one is bidding for a second Australian Open title after losing last year's final to Roger Federer and was never in any trouble against the world number 79 from the Dominican Republic.

The French and US Open champion was playing his first competitive match since being forced to withdraw from the World Tour finals in November with a knee injury, but looked sharp with his movement and pace of shot far too much for his game opponent.

"I'm very happy to be back. I always get huge support in Australia," said Nadal. "I love the sport and the competition, but I want to enjoy every moment I am here."

The 2009 winner will face Leonardo Mayer in the second round as he continues his quest for a 17th Grand Slam title.

"Happy for the start, of course," said Nadal. "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.

"But I started with positive feelings. That's the most important thing for me now. Of course, there are things to improve.

"But the thing that I need to improve, the matches will give me those things, no? Victories are the most important thing now."

Having warmly embraced Estrella Burgos after sealing the one-sided win, Nadal said he could not afford to underestimate any opponent.

"I believe that the doubts are good because when you have doubts, it's because you aren't too arrogant, because you have respect for your opponent, because you have respect for the game and because you don't consider yourself unbelievably good," he said.