Rafael Nadal produced a sensational comeback to beat Daniil Medvedev in the 2022 Australian Open final and to move ahead of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer for most men’s Grand Slam titles.
The 35-year-old Spanish superstar was initially tied at 20 Grand Slam titles alongside rivals Federer and Djokovic.
However, Nadal broke the Grand Slam deadlock with a sensational 2-6, 6-7 (5-7), 6-4, 6-4, 7-5 win over Medvedev at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne.
The world No 5 found himself two sets down to Russian Medvedev, with the latter in search of his second Grand Slam win.
Nadal fought back in a thrilling Australian Open final, which lasted for roughly an incredible five hours and 24 minutes.
The 21-time Grand Slam winner’s last major success at an Australian Open came in 2009 with his victory over tennis legend Federer.
Djokovic was unable to defend his 2021 Australian Open title as the tennis superstar was deported from the country following the rejection of his visa appeal.
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Nadal congratulated the “amazing” Medvedev for his performance and called the final “one of the most emotional matches of my tennis career.”
Speaking after his historic win, the Australian Open champion said: “Good evening. Well, good morning, everybody. I know it’s a tough moment -- Daniil, you are amazing, I have been in this position.
“I don’t have any doubt that you will have this trophy a couple of times in your career because you are amazing.
“It has been one of the most emotional matches of my tennis career. All the best to you in the future.”
Nadal added: “I don’t know what to say, guys. For me, it is just amazing.
“I did not know if I would be back on the tour playing tennis again. You don’t know how much it means to be back here. You are amazing and thank you so much for all of your support.
“Without a doubt it is one of the most emotional [periods] of my career. To have the support I have received the last three weeks will stay in my heart. So many, many thanks.”
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Rafael Nadal, Tennis, Australian Open
Adnan Riaz