Nadal tries, and fails to hit US Open roof

NEW YORK — On Wednesday night, Rafael Nadal became the first player to win under the new $150-million Arthur Ashe Stadium roof, and the first to try to launch a ball at it. The fourth seed topped Andreas Seppi in three efficient sets, 6-0, 7-5, 6-1.

"Is great to be the first player to play with the roof closed, on the competition, because I was the first player to hit in the center court with the roof closed," Nadal said. "Just happy. The difference is not many."

The roof closed without a hitch among a few falling raindrops.

The biggest difference was that the crowd chatter and noise was amplified, but that can only be expected in a closed arena.

"I don't know, with the new court, even if the roof is open, there is more noise out there..." Nadal said. "Was little bit strange. For moments was little bit too much during the points. I always love the energy and the noise of the New York crowd. Is just fantastic... But is true that was a little bit more noisy than usual."