RAFAEL NADAL MADE HISTORY in what can only be described as the most unbelievable of fashions in the early hours of Monday morning, as he roared back from two-sets-to-love down to capture his record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.
Under the lights on Rod Laver Arena, the legendary Spaniard looked down and out against Daniil Medvedev. However, the sixth seed demonstrated his trademark big-match mentality, overcoming the Russian 2-6, 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-4, 7-5 in front of a raucous crowd in a Melbourne classic that ran for all of five-and-a-half gut-wrenching hours.
With his dramatic victory, Nadal claimed sole ownership of the record for the most men’s singles Grand Slam titles, moving past Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, who are both on 20 major crowns. The 35-year-old, who also clinched the trophy in Melbourne in 2009, has become just the second player in the Open Era alongside Djokovic to win each of the four majors at least twice.
“It was one of the most emotional matches of my career,” Nadal said during the trophy ceremony. “To share the court with Daniil was just an honour. It is amazing. To be honest, one and a half months ago I wasn’t sure if I was able to be back on the Tour playing tennis again. But today I am here in front of all of you with this trophy in front of me. You are just amazing, thank you so much.”
“Having the huge support I received over the past three weeks is going to stay in my heart for the rest of my life, so thank you very much,” the 35-year-old, who is the third-oldest man in the Open Era to win a Grand Slam title after Ken Rosewall and Federer, added.
A "small matter" that would have been furthest from the great champion's mind following his victory for the ages is his championship title winnings - $2.875 million.
Medvedev: 'Huge Respect'
Up against an all-time legend on the brink of history, Medvedev came oh-so-close to spoiling Nadal’s chase for major title No. 21.
“[I have] huge respect for Rafa,” said Medvedev in his post-match press conference. “Huge respect for beating me because I tried my best.”
The Russian was particularly impressed with how Nadal handled the pressure knowing he was trying to achieve something no male player had before.
“The way he managed to play throughout all these sets, even in the tough moments, for him it was for making history,” said Medvedev. “For sure he tried not to think about it, but it must have been somewhere in his head.”
Earlier, during the trophy ceremony, Medvedev had highlighted the physical prowess of the Spaniard as a key decider in the marathon encounter.
“[It’s] tough to talk after five hours, 30 minutes and losing, but I want to congratulate Rafa because what he did today, I was amazed,” said Medvedev. “I tried during the match just to play tennis, but after the match I asked him, ‘Are you tired?’, because it was insane.”
Medvedev added that the level was “very high” before addressing Nadal directly. “You raised your level after two sets for the 21st Grand Slam. I thought you were going to get tired, maybe you did just a little but still won the match,” said Medvedev. “You’re an amazing champion.”
‘Proud to share this era with you’ - Roger Federer
“What a match! the Swiss maestro posted in a public message on his Instagram story.
He further wrote: “To my friend and great rival Rafael Nadal, heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles tiles.
“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!”
'Amazing Achievement' - Novak Djokovic
The Serbian World No.1 and still odds on favourite to end his career with the highest number of Grand Slams among the Big 3 posted on Instagram: “There has been some outstanding tennis played at this year’s Australian Open and the finals were exceptional.
“Congratulations to Ash Barty for an amazing performance in front of her home crowd and to Danielle Collins for an incredible tournament.
“Congratulations to Rafael Nadal for 21st Grand Slam. Amazing achievement. Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time.
“Daniil Medvedev gave it his all out there and played with the passion and determination we have come to expect from him.”
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