Rafael Nadal, who has already moved into the fourth round of the US Open, says he feels less pain in his wrist, an issue which had forced him to pull out this year at Roland Garros.

Nadal, speaking after his 6-1 6-4 6-2 victory over Russian Andrey Kuznetsov, says he still feels a bit of pain but it does not limit his game.

The Spaniard expressed satisfaction with his game and his level of confidence, and said he had long waited to compete once again.

He recalled his widely applauded shot to reach match point against Kuznetsov, saying he had once played the same shot against Novak Djokovic in Madrid.

Of his last-16 opponent, French 24th seed Lucas Pouille, Nadal said he was a very young and complete player, and he would have to prepare well and play his best.

The former world No.1 said Pouille was a tough rival who had just beaten fellow Spaniard and 15th seed Roberto Bautista Agut, against whom you needed to play high-quality tennis.