Nadal followed rival and good friend Roger Federer's supertiebreak drama against John Millman, a match that did not end until 01:00 local time the day before in Melbourne.

- I was taken to follow the game, says Nadal who saw Federer turn 4-8 and win the last six balls and go up to 10-8 before it was over.

Nadal cleaned Carreno Busta at 1.40 and was happy with the game.

Best match of the tournament

- I needed to improve and I did. There is no doubt that it is the best match of the tournament, says Nadal who has not lost to a Spaniard of five years.

Carreno Busta bowed to the power.

- When he plays so relaxed there is nothing you can do, says Carreno Busta, who did not have a single break ball.

Nadal was listed only for seven own mistakes and offered no double fault. It was perfection.