Canadian Milos Raonic defeated Indian Sumit Nagal in two identical sets of 6-3 at the end of a first round match that was long interrupted by rain, Thursday at the Indian Wells tournament.
Raonic (224e) had nine aces and won 76% of rallies when his first serve was in play against Nagal (101e).
Aged 33, Raonic took advantage of three of his 12 break points during this duel which lasted 88 minutes, not counting a delay of more than two hours due to rain.
Raonic was initially due to face Spaniard Rafael Nadal, holder of 22 Grand Slam titles, but the three-time tournament champion, aged 37, threw in the towel on Wednesday.
Denis Shapovalov (131e) was also to play his first round match against the Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp (82e), Thursday, but his match was postponed to Friday late afternoon.
Quebecer Félix Auger-Aliassime (31e) will face Frenchman Constant Lestienne (100e).
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