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Home > The Mike Hosking Breakfast > Commentary Box: World reacts to Rafael Nadal's epic 21st grand slam victory
Podcast: The Mike Hosking Breakfast
Episode:

Commentary Box: World reacts to Rafael Nadal's epic 21st grand slam victory

Category: News & Politics
Duration: 00:10:59
Publish Date: 2022-01-30 22:16:11
Description: Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have congratulated rival Rafael Nadal after the Spainard claimed his 21st grand slam victory with an epic five hour victory over second seed Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open.
The 35-year-old now has one more major title than Federer and Djokovic, his long-time rivals in the so-called Big Three.
With the 2-6, 6-7 (5), 6-4, 6-4, 7-5 win, Nadal also became just the fourth man in history to win all four of the sport's major titles at least twice.

Roger Federer's Instagram post.
"What a match!" Federer wrote on Instagram. "To my friend and greatest rival Rafael Nadal. Heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 grand slam singles titles. 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."

There has been some outstanding tennis played at this year’s #AusOpen and the finals were exceptional. Congratulations to @ashbarty for an amazing performance in front of her home crowd and to Danielle Collins for an incredible tournament. pic.twitter.com/qM3pcDnAeL— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 30, 2022

Australian tennis legend and winner of 11 grand slams Rod Laver called the win 'Herculean'.

A final of Herculean proportions, thank you for a brilliant contest @RafaelNadal and @DaniilMedwed. Two AO crowns and 21 majors, given everything you have endured this historic victory is so special Rafa. It has been a privilege to watch you doing what you love. Congratulations????— Rod Laver (@rodlaver) January 30, 2022


The mental and physical marathon of a 5-hour Grand Slam final requires grit, guts, spirit, & determination. Congratulations to @RafaelNadal on his 21st Grand Slam! What a comeback! https://t.co/W5W5WyMcak— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) January 30, 2022


Wow. Congrats @RafaelNadal ! An absolute pleasure to watch— andyroddick (@andyroddick) January 30, 2022


Why did I randomly wake up at 3am. To watch history, that's why. What extraordinary determination, talent and courage. Thirteen years between #AustralianOpen titles. Stuff of legends. Go Rafa #21— Grant Robertson (@grantrobertson1) January 30, 2022


The Grand Slam King ????#AusOpen • #AO2022 pic.twitter.com/MsrkpTXzee— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2022


What. A. Legend. @RafaelNadal Super congrats to my fellow @SunreefYachts ambassador! Watched every minute of it! My daughters thought I was crazy shouting at the TV! Well done also to Medvedev. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/YgjNkT8IWY— Nico Rosberg (@NicoRosberg) January 30, 2022


That is absolutely magnificent. Stunning to say the least.From 2 sets down to come back and win your 21st Grand Slam is incredible.Congratulations @RafaelNadal!#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/VHjjlb4GFN— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 30, 2022

Nadal and Medvedev packed a lot of drama into the final that started Sunday night, was delayed for a while in the 84-minute second set when a protester jumped onto the court, and then finished early Monday morning.
"Good evening. No, good morning!" Nadal, looking at his watch, told the crowd at Rod Laver Arena when he finally got up for his acceptance speech at 1:30 a.m.
In the background, Rod Laver, the ageing Australian tennis great, was in the stands holding up his smartphone to capture the scenes. A woman nearby held up a sign that stated: "Rafa is the GOAT."

Rafael Nadal, right, of...

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