The Spaniard, whose 2016 was hampered by a wrist injury, had few problems against German Mayer in a 6-3 6-4 6-4 win in hot conditions in Melbourne.

While he only broke once in each set at Rod Laver Arena, Nadal – who lost in the first round last year – was untroubled by Mayer.

Seeded ninth, 14-time grand-slam champion Nadal lost just 16 points on his serve, allowing him to attack Mayer frequently.

Nadal raced into a 4-1 lead in the first set but had to wait until the ninth game of the second to secure a break.

The warm weather appeared to be taking its toll on Mayer, yet the world number 49 continued to fight in the third.

However, his resistance was broken in the ninth game again, a Nadal forehand proving un-returnable.

As had been the case throughout, Nadal managed his service game with ease to close out victory in two hours, four minutes.

Next up for Nadal is Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis, a player he has beaten in eight of their nine matches.