Spanish number two David Ferrer has revealed that he was "happy" to have negotiated his way through the opening round of the US Open earlier today.

The 30-year-old eased into a two-set lead against South Africa's Kevin Anderson, before requiring a victory in a third-set tie-break to book his place in the next round at Flushing Meadows.

Reflecting on his performance, Ferrer admitted that he was pleased to have defeated "a really good player".

"I feel good," Ferrer said during his post-match interview. "It was not an easy match with Anderson.

"He's a really good player. He has a very strong first and second serve. I'm happy because I played well in my first round."

Ferrer reached the semi-final in New York back in 2007.