WATCH | US Open 2017: Rafael Nadal eases past Leonardo Mayer to progress to fourth round

World No.1 Rafael Nadal overcame Leonardo Mayer of Argentina to progress through to the fourth round of the US Open on Saturday.

Nadal, who lost the first set, eventually fought back to win 6-7 (3-7), 6-3, 6-1, 6-4 the match that lasted for three hours and 16 minutes.

For a set-and-a-half, Nadal, the top seed, failed to capitalise on 13 break-point opportunities.

At the moment it's the @YacaMayer show...

Spectacular playing from Mayer who leads Nadal 7-6, 2-2 on Arthur Ashe currently.#USOpen pic.twitter.com/jUF0z1R44v

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 2, 2017

But the Spaniard found his range as the second set commenced, eventually scoring his first break of the match on his 14th opportunity and drawing level with a rifled forehand pass.

Rafa HEATS up!@RafaelNadal finally breaks Mayer in a 12 minute game to take the lead in the 2nd set.

Is the comeback in motion?#USOpen pic.twitter.com/hyGErqlYJ2

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 2, 2017

Back in Business!@RafaelNadal evens it up against Mayer!

1 set all...#USOpen pic.twitter.com/4Q5LxzaxdJ

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 2, 2017

"It was a slow start of converting break points and when you have that many break points, you created the opportunities, more than usual," said Nadal. 

It's elation for @RafaelNadal as he breaks Mayer to start the 3rd set!#USOpen pic.twitter.com/ioZGdvGNMq

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 2, 2017

"You need matches like this. Then now I have the opportunity to compete again, to try to do it well. I am in the second week. That's the important thing. I already won three matches in a row. That's important news for me,? he added.

Out of this world for most...

Standard for @RafaelNadal...#USOpen pic.twitter.com/rtOKwXtY7h

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 3, 2017

The 15-time Grand Slam Champion, who owns a tour-leading 52 match wins this year, will look to reach the quarter-finals in New York for the first time since 2013 when he faces Alexandr Dolgopolov. 

Match point, @RafaelNadal! #USOpen @chase pic.twitter.com/Mp75AfVAwE

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 3, 2017

(With ANI inputs)