By Martyn Herman
The 91st-ranked Russell, who delighted the crowd with a few cheeky drop shots and dives across the turf, even had the temerity to lead 4-2 in the first set before Nadal switched on the after-burners and raced to victory.
"Fantastic. Seriously, I never played in a court like this," the 25-year-old told, who spent the eve of the match watching Ireland's Rory McIlroy win the U.S. Open golf, told reporters.
"It was a big emotion to be the first player to play in this fabulous court. Seriously was a very exciting feeling.
"Fantastic to see the court in perfect conditions. I'm very, very happy for everything."
CONGRATULATIONS MESSAGE
Nadal said he had sent McIlroy a message of congratulations and hoped to meet him when he visits the All England Club next week. "He did amazing. In my opinion was a perfect round of golf," Nadal said.
A defending men's champion has only lost in the first round twice in the previous 124 championships.
The unthinkable almost happened to Roger Federer last year against Alejandro Falla of Colombia but Russell, nicknamed Iron Mike, lacked the firepower to seriously disturb Nadal who looked refreshed after his mini-break back home in Mallorca following his quarter-final defeat at Queen's.
"Let's talk about today. Let's talk about tomorrow. Let's not talk about in 10 days or 12 days, because I don't know if I am here or I am fishing in Mallorca," Nadal said. "You never know what's going on in a tournament like this."
Despite a slow start and a few netted backhands, Nadal looked sharp and crunched 35 winners as his parents watched on from the Royal Box.
"After that I started to change a little bit more the rhythm with the slice, trying to play a little bit longer points, trying to hit the forehand when I had the chance," Nadal said.
"I think I did well after that first moment of the first set. My level in general I think was very positive, no?"
Few would disagree, including Texas-based Russell who cheekily removed his shirt at the end after his more illustrious opponent had done the same to the delight of the female members of the crowd.
(Editing by Ed Osmond)
