A title for History. Winner, this Sunday, of the Australian Open, against Daniil Medvedev, Rafael Nadal became the only player with the most titles in Grand Slam with 21 coronations in Major. And this performance was hailed by his two biggest rivals Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
The Swiss was the first to send his congratulations to his “friend” and “great rival”. “My sincere congratulations for becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam single titles,” he posted on Instagram before delivering a funny anecdote when they were both injured. “A few months ago we were joking that we were both on crutches. Incredible. Never underestimate a great champion,” added Federer, who has 20 Grand Slam titles.
The translation of the message of @Roger Federer at @Rafael Nadal. Powerful. pic.twitter.com/4tdMgxTYfM
— Tennis Legend (@TennisLegend) January 30, 2022
He went on to praise the Spaniard’s perseverance and outstanding mindset. “Your incredible work ethic, dedication, fighting spirit is an inspiration to me and countless others around the world. I am proud to share this time with you and honored to play a part in pushing you to go further, as you have done for me for the past 18 years.”
Moments later, Novak Djokovic, deprived of the Australian Open after seeing his visa canceled due to his non-vaccination against Covid-19, also sent a message to Nadal. “Congratulations to Rafael Nadal on his 21st Grand Slam. An incredible feat. A still impressive combativeness which won once again, ”posted on Twitter the Serb, who had been deprived of a 21st Grand Slam title last September in the final of the US Open by… Daniil Medvedev.
Congratulations to @Rafael Nadal 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