Spain's Rafael Nadal returns the ball to Argentina's Facundo Bagnis during their men's second round match at the Roland Garros 2016 French Tennis Open in Paris on May 26, 2016. PHOTO: AFP
Nadal, 29, dropped the first two games against the world number 99 but then won 18 of the next 22 to ease through 6-3, 6-0, 6-3.
French Open: Wawrinka back in groove, wins in straight sets
He next plays either Spanish compatriot Marcel Granollers or Nicolas Mahut of France.
"It was a difficult start, but after that I was very solid and happy to win on Court Philippe Chatrier which has been the most important court in my career," said Nadal.
"This has been a better year than last year. I have been playing well this year against some of the best players in the world.
Flawless Nadal races into French Open second round
"I wanted to be competitive again at Roland Garros, which is very special to me."
Roger Federer, missing from the French Open this year, tops the all-time list of Grand Slam matches won on 302.
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