Greatest Australian Open Final: Tennis legend Roger Federer posted a heartfelt message to his rival and dear friend Rafael Nadal, who became the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles with the Australian Open triumph on Sunday. By winning the Australian Open final against World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev, Nadal surpassed Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic to become the winner of most titles in Grand Slams history.
Congratulating Nadal for his achievement, on his Instagram story Roger Federer wrote, “What a match! To my friend and great rival Rafael Nadal. Heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand slam titles.”
Greatest Australian Open Final: Roger Federer posts heartfelt message to Rafael Nadal, says ‘Months ago, were joking about both being on crutches’
Roger’s contratulations on instagram #fedal #rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/PGxiDMEl3b
— Fedal Archive #WhereIsPengShuai (@ArchiveFedal) January 30, 2022
Federer lauded Nadal for his dedication and work ethic and called him an inspiration “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.”
“I am proud to share this era with you and honoured 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,” concluded Federer.
Greatest Australian Open Final: Roger Federer posts heartfelt message to Rafael Nadal, says ‘Months ago, were joking about both being on crutches’
The Federer-Nadal rivalry is considered one of the greatest-ever tennis rivalries in the Open era. However, off the court, both the players have shared a good friendship and this post by Roger Federer reflects the amazing bond that both the players have. 40-year old Federer missed the Australian Open this year as he is continuing to recover from a knee injury.
By winning the Australian Open for the second time, Nadal became the fourth man in the history of the sport to claim multiple crowns at all the four majors.
Greatest Australian Open Final: Roger Federer posts heartfelt message to Rafael Nadal, says ‘Months ago, were joking about both being on crutches’
On Sunday, Djokovic saw his rival achieve his 21st in an epic thriller. Nadal did the unthinkable in Melbourne as he rallied from two sets down to clinch a record-breaking Grand Slam title. Nadal clinched his 21st Grand Slam title, the most by a men’s singles player, overtaking Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic to break the three-way tie. The Spaniard, who only returned from a foot injury in the build-up to the new season, defeated Daniil Medvedev, 2-6, 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, 7-5.
Two sets down, the legendary Spaniard rallied to defeat the world number two, Daniil Medvedev, by 2-6, 6-7(5), 6-4, 7-5 as he clinched the record-breaking Australian Open trophy at Rod Laver Arena. The title clash lasted for incredible five hours and 24 minutes. With this triumph, Nadal has broken his tie with Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer for the most men’s singles Grand Slam titles in history.
The Spaniard has also become the fourth man in history to claim multiple crowns at all four majors. As expected the match started at very high intensity for the Russian as he broke Nadal twice early and grabbed a lead after the first set.
Greatest Australian Open Final: Roger Federer posts heartfelt message to Rafael Nadal, says ‘Months ago, were joking about both being on crutches’
