On Jan 30, 2022, history was made in Melbourne, Australia, as Rafeal Nadal shakes his head with his hands covering his grinning face; he walks to the net and shakes his opponent’s hand, Daniil Medvedev. After five hours and 24 minutes, Nadal defeated Medvedev in the 2022 Australian Open Championship to claim his 21st Grand Slam single’s title.

“It was one of the most emotional matches in my tennis career,” Nadal said. “I don’t know what to say. For me, it’s just amazing.

Nadal has defeated Medvedev four out of the five times they played; their first match was at the ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) Masters 1000 in 2019.

“Being honest, one month and a half ago, I did not know if I will be able to be back on tour and play tennis again, Nadal said.”

Nadal dealt with a chronic foot injury in 2021 and could not compete in the most recent US Open.

“And today, in front of all of you (the crowd), having this trophy with me… you really don’t know how much I fought to be here, Nadal said.”

With his 21st Grand Slam title, Nadal passes both Roger Federer and Noval Djokovic, who have 20 titles each, for most Grand Slam singles titles in history.

“What a match! To my friend and great rival, Rafael Nadal, Federer said.” Heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles.

The Federer-Nadal rivalry consists of 40 games, with Nadal leading the record 24-16 and 14-10 in finals.

“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.

Nadal has been competing against Federer for titles since he first became a professional in 2001 when he was around 15 years of age.

“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 for the past 18 years. I am sure you have more achievements ahead but for now enjoy this one!”