Swiss tennis super star Roger Federer and Serbian tennis super star Novak Djokovic congratulated their long-time rival Rafa Nadal after Rafael Nadal clinched a record all three players have been chasing – a 21st Grand Slam title – with his Australian Open triumph on Sunday at Rod Laver Arena.
Another chapter is written 🏆@RafaelNadal defeats Daniil Medvedev 2-6 6-7(5) 6-4 6-4 7-5 to win his second #AusOpen title in an epic lasting five hours and 24 minutes.
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🎥: @wwos • @espn • @eurosport • @wowowtennis #AO2022 pic.twitter.com/OlMvhlGe6r— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2022
Rafael Nadal’s victory over Daniil Medvedev in a five-set thriller put him one clear of Federer and world number one Novak Djokovic on the all-time Grand Slam titles race in the men’s singles game.Rafael Nadal became the first man to win his 21 Grand Slam titles after beating world No.2 Daniil Medvedev in the Australian open final
Reunited with Norm 🏆#AusOpen • #AO2022 • @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/QAh0CPWYN0
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2022
“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,” Roger Federer said in a social media post.
Novak Djokovic had been top seeded in the draw for the Open but was unable to play, deported from Australia on the eve of the tournament in a dramatic dispute over the country’s COVID-19 entry requirements and his unvaccinated status.
“Congratulations to @rafaelnadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement. Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time,” the Serbian player said in a post on Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZXAQmXLfHs/?utm_medium=copy_link
Federer missed the tournament to continue his rehabilitation from knee surgery.
“A few months ago we were joking about both being on crutches. Amazing. Never underestimate a great champion,” the Swiss player said of Nadal.
FeDal is alive ♥️♥️♥️ pic.twitter.com/PVkKOKvJTb
— Marcela Linhares (@ma__linharess) January 30, 2022
“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,” added Federer.
“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!”
Topics
Australian Open Grand Slam Rafael Nadal Tennis Sports Kolkata