Novak Djokovic has sent a message of congratulations to Rafael Nadal after the Spaniard broke the record they each shared with Roger Federer by winning the Australian Open.
Nadal was the only one of the 'big three' of men's tennis present at the competition, as Federer missed out through injury and Djokovic was deported after a legal battle with authorities.
The 35-year-old was not seen as a major contender for the title in Melbourne, though, considering he had just recovered from several months out with a foot injury.
But as he progressed through the rounds a stunning success became more likely, and was finally realised when Nadal came back from two sets down to beat Daniil Medvedev in a five-and-a-half-hour thriller.
A 21st Grand Slam singles title for the Spaniard breaks the record he jointly held with Federer and Djokovic, both of whom have sent classy messages to the Melbourne champion.
"Congratulations to @rafaelnadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement," Djokovic wrote on Instagram.
"Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time."
The Serbian also had some praise for the losing finalist Medvedev: "@medwed33 gave it his all out there and played with the passion and determination we have come to expect from him."
He went on to praise women's champion Ashleigh Barty, who won her home Slam for the first time on Saturday, and Danielle Collins who had reached the final of a major tournament for the first time before losing to the world number one.
Djokovic's message came as Federer also paid tribute to their great rival Nadal with a lengthy social media post.
"To my friend and great rival @RafaelNadal. Heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles," he wrote.
"A few months ago we were joking about both being on crutches. Amazing. Never underestimate a great champion.
"Your incredible work ethic, dedication and fighting spirit are an inspiration to me and countless others around the world.
"I am proud to share this era with you and honoured to play a role in pushing you to achieve more. As you have done for me in the past 18 years.
"I am sure you have more achievements ahead but for now enjoy this one!"
The next Grand Slam on the calendar is the French Open in May, where Nadal could secure a 22nd major title at a tournament which he has dominated over the course of his career and won 13 times.
Out to stop him will be Djokovic, who will hope to be able to play despite his vaccine status, while that competition at Roland Garros is expected to come too soon for Federer.
