Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer have both paid tribute to great rival Rafael Nadal after his unforgettable record-breaking Australian Open triumph.
Nadal - whose only previous Australian Open victory came all the way back in 2009 - overturned a 2-0 deficit to beat 2021 US Open champion Daniil Medvedev in an epic five-set Melbourne final that lasted for five-and-a-half hours and went past 1am local time.
Such an incredible comeback saw the Spaniard, 35, move clear of fellow ‘Big Three’ members Djokovic and Federer on a men’s record 21 Grand Slam titles.
It is a truly remarkable achievement from Nadal, who admitted he was considering his tennis future after a six-month injury lay-off in 2021, which was followed quickly by a positive test for Covid-19.
Now he will be a clear favourite to extend his majors lead over Djokovic and Federer at the French Open - a tournament he has won no fewer than 13 times - in June.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Federer - who missed the Australian Open for the second time in succession after knee surgery - wrote on Sunday: “What a match. To my friend and great rival Rafael Nadal, heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 grand slam singles’ titles.
“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 for the past 18 years. I am sure you have more achievements ahead but for now enjoy this one!”
Congratulations to @RafaelNadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement. Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time. Enhorabuena 👏🏆👍 @Medwed33 gave it his all out there and played with the passion and determination we have come to expect from him. pic.twitter.com/DsOvK8idNc
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 30, 2022
Nine-time Australian Open champion Djokovic was initially the strong favourite to claim a 21st Grand Slam title in Melbourne, only to be deported from Australia after failing to overturn the decision to cancel his visa. It remains to be seen if he will be able to compete at Roland Garros.
The Serbian took to Twitter to offer his congratulations to Nadal and women’s champion Ash Barty, who on Saturday became the first home winner of the Australian Open for 44 years.
“There has been some outstanding tennis played at this year’s #AusOpen and the finals were exceptional,” Djokovic wrote. “Congratulations to @ashbarty for an amazing performance in front of her home crowd and to Danielle Collins for an incredible tournament.
“Congratulations to @RafaelNadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement. Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time. Enhorabuena. @Medwed33 gave it his all out there and played with the passion and determination we have come to expect from him.”
