Rafael Nadal just became the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles — and his fellow champions are celebrating the major milestone.
Following a 5½-hour match with Russian player Daniil Medvedev, Nadal, 35, won the Australian Open and broke his tie with Roger Federer e Novak Djokovic, who both hold 20 Grand Slam men’s singles titles. (The overall record for singles titles in the Open Era goes to Serena Williams, who has won 23 Grand Slams).
“What a match! To my friend and great rival, @rafaelnadal, heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles,” Federer, 40, wrote on his Instagram Story.
“A few months ago we were joking about both being on crutches. Surpreendente. Never underestimate a great champion,” Ele continuou, referencing their recent injuries. “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 honored to play a role in pushing you to achieve more, as you have done for me the past 18 anos. I am sure you have more achievements ahead but for now enjoy this one!” concluded the Swiss athlete, who did not compete in the Open as he continues to recover from a knee surgery.
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Djokovic, 34, also posted on his social media after Nadal’s win, escrita no Twitter, “Parabéns a @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.
Djokovic did not attend the Australian Open, due to being unvaccinated against COVID-19. He had initially received a COVID-19 vaccine medical exemption to play in the tournament, but was later forced to leave the country after Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke canceled his visa.
Nadal told reporters that his Australian Open win is “without a doubt probably the biggest comeback of my tennis career,” de acordo com ESPN.
“The most unexpected. And most surprising, eu penso, for everyone,” ele adicionou.
Less than six months before the record-breaking victory, Nadal had withdrawn from the U.S. Open due to a foot injury, marking the end of his 2021 career. Ele também missed Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics after a devastating perda to Djokovic in the French Open semifinals.
“Tonight has been unforgettable,” he said after Sunday’s match. “I feel very lucky.”