Nadal takes opening set of Wimbledon final

Nadal gained a quick break of serve in the third game when Federer managed to put only one first serve into play. Federer, though, nearly broke right back. After falling behind 0-40, he rallied for a break point and hit a forehand long. Nadal eventually held serve to validate the break.

Federer had a couple of break chances in the 10th game, but failed to convert. After a perfect volley set up the first, he missed a backhand volley long. A backhand into the net on a second serve cost him another chance before Nadal finally held to win the set.

Rain delayed the start of play for about 30 minutes.

Federer is trying for his sixth straight Wimbledon crown, while Nadal is trying for his first. Federer beat Nadal in each of the last two Wimbledon title matches.