"It's never easy in a first match," said Nadal. "I had a few days rest after the US Open but I think I am playing well. I'm happy with my match. Bemelmans played well during some moments and the second set for sure was not easy. It's important to start with a win."

Nadal, who met Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva after the match, said, "It was an honour for me to meet the Prime Minister and I would just like to thank him for coming to watch the match."

"The first round is for sure never easy," said Nadal.

"I had some time off after winning the US Open and spent a week in this great country. I played well but I must improve for the next match."

"I am very happy to attend the activity," said Nadal.

"I'd like to say that I am very happy staying in Bangkok and Hua Hin. I took my vacation in Hua Hin and played many other sports in the past week.

"The accommodation is very good. The smiles from Thai people make me feel very good. I also gave alms to monk and this merit making could help me win the Thailand Open for the first time.

"Thailand is a good place for tourists and the spicy food is very delicious to me and also my friends."

The Spaniard had planned to keep this Wednesday morning, a brief meeting at the Parliament with the Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, although the event was eventually postponed until he had time enough to train.

Nadal's busy schedule took him Tuesday at the coastal town of Hua Hin, south of Bangkok, where after a few days off to attend a promotional event in which he planted a tree to mark Thailand's fight against climate change climate.