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2018 French Open: Rafael Nadal Cruises Into Fourth Round

PARIS — Rafael Nadal, the defending men’s champion here, easily beat Richard Gasquet once again, reaching the fourth round of the French Open with a crushing 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 win on Saturday.

Nadal, who is ranked No. 1, is gaining momentum in his bid for a record-extending 11th title at Roland Garros, and Gasquet never looked remotely like stopping him.

He rarely has.

Nadal, of Spain, inflicted a 16th defeat on Gasquet, who has lost every encounter dating to 2004.

“He’s someone I really appreciate,” said Nadal, who has been friends with Gasquet since their junior days.