Australian Open: Nadal defeats Medvedev to win record 21st Grand Slam title

Rafael Nadal on Sunday, defeated Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final, becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles.

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The Spaniard lost the first two sets for the first time at a Grand Slam in 15 years to complete a remarkable chapter in his extraordinary career.

Nadal has now moved one clear of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the Slam stakes.

His incredible 2-6 6-7 (5-7) 6-4 6-3 7-5 victory after five hours and 24 minutes finally finished at 1.11am local time and was his second triumph at Melbourne Park – his first since 2009 – making him only the second man after Djokovic to win every Grand Slam title at least twice since the sport turned professional in 1968.

The numbers only tell a fraction of the story after the 35-year-old feared he may have to retire only a couple of months ago because of a chronic foot problem and arrived in Australia unsure of what he could achieve.

After receiving the trophy, Nadal turned to his opponent, saying: “I know it’s a tough moment. Daniil, you are an amazing champion.

“I have been in this position a couple of times at this tournament. I have no doubt you will have this trophy a couple of times in your career. It has been one of the most emotional matches in my tennis career and to share the court with you is just an honour.

“I don’t know what to say. For me, it’s just amazing. Being honest, one month and a half ago I didn’t know if I would be able to be back on the tour and now I am here sharing the trophy with all of you. You don’t know how much I fought to be here. Thank you so much for all the support.

“Without a doubt, it’s one of the most emotional moments in my tennis career. The support I received through the three weeks is going to stay in my heart for the rest of my life.

“I really can’t explain the feelings that I have right now but I’m going to keep trying my best to come next year.”