Rafael Nadal has had a fantastic year so far.He has impressively reached the final of two Grand Slams, taking home the trophy in the French Open, as well as winning three other ranking events in Monte Carlo, Barcelona, and Madrid. This success has meant he has climbed back to the top of the ATP rankings ahead Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic, and long-time rival Roger Federer. It is therefore no surprise that he went into the current US Open as the top seed and the player everyone wants to avoid. Especially given the fact the tournament is without the likes of Murray, Djokovic, Stan Wawrinka, and Kei Nishikori due to injuries.In the opening round, he eased past Serbian Dusan Lajovic in straight sets, before coming from behind against Japanese pro Taro Daniel to win 3-1 in the second round.This result therefore set up an interesting encounter against former Davis Cup champion Leonardo Mayer. Nadal got off to a shaky start, losing the tie break in the first set to go behind in the match. He then recovered well, winning the next two sets 6-3 and 6-1 to only need one more set to book his place in the next round.It was then in the first game of the fourth set, this happened!

As you can see, the moment of brilliance seemed to very much delight the packed crowd inside the Arthur Ashe stadium, whilst his opponent stood there bemused at what just happened.

The Spaniard then went on to win 6-4 and take the match in a time of three hours 16 minutes. 

He will now face Ukrainian Alexandr Dolgopolov in the last 16 which could ultimately set up a first ever meeting at the US Open with Roger Federer should they both win their next two matches. 

Exciting times for tennis fans.