Spanish stalwart Rafael Nadal, bidding for a record-extending 23rd singles Grand Slam title, cruised into the US Open fourth round with a 6-0, 6-1, 7-5 victory against World No.7 Richard Gasquet of France inside the Arthur Ashe Stadium on Saturday.

Nadal, 37, who was tested in his second-round clash by Italy’s Fabio Fognini, faced no such issues against Gasquet as the Spaniard won his 18th consecutive match against the Frenchman. “My best match in the tournament. Easy to say that because the other day was tough. But, important improvement. But I need to keep going. It’s a good victory for me. Straight sets for the first time. Third set was a challenge. He increased the level,” Nadal, bidding for his fifth US Open trophy, was quoted as saying by atptour.com.