In the 2022 Australian Open final, Rafael Nadal produced one of the greatest comebacks in tennis history.
With an in-form Daniil Medvedev up two sets in the championship match, it looked as though Nadal was down and out. But as Medvedev was closing in on his second Grand Slam title, the Spaniard rallied to deliver what was dubbed ‘the miracle in Melbourne’, winning 2-6, 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, 7-5 to clinch the title.
Nadal’s triumph saw him surpass his longtime rivals, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, for the most major titles of all time with 21 to his name.
Asked in his post-match press conference if he felt like the best player of all time after breaking the record, Nadal replied: “No, I don’t want to change my point of view honestly. Of course, for me it’s amazing to achieve another Grand Slam at this moment of my career. Just means a lot to me. Of course, I know it’s a special number, 21.
“I mean, I know how it means, no? Is a big significance this title, no? But from my point of view I really believe what I said the other day, I hope, no, I believe today is an unforgettable day. I never will say I deserve, because I think a lot of people fight and a lot of people deserve.
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“But I really believe that I hold a very positive spirit. For the last six months, I really fought a lot to try to be back on court. Have been very, very tough moments, moments to really… Conversations, tough ones, because you don’t know if I [am] going to have the chance to be back on the tour.
“But, yeah, I feel honored. I feel lucky to achieve one more very special thing in my tennis career. I don’t care much if I am the one or not the one or the best of the history, not the best of the history. Honestly today I don’t care much, no?
“For me it’s about enjoying nights like today. That means everything for me, no? Means even more to achieve the second Australian Open more than any other thing.”
Rafael Nadal said his 21st major title was more emotional than his first
Nadal clinched his first Grand Slam title at the 2005 French Open, aged just 19, but suggested the 2022 Australian Open triumph meant more to him. He said: “Have been more emotional than the first one. No doubt about that.
“I don’t know. At latest stages of your career, I think you are able to enjoy more these moments because you know the chances are less. When you have 19, when I achieved the first, of course is super special, but you know if you are playing well, you’re going to keep having chances to enjoy moments, no?
“Today you never know what can happen. Yeah, of course I am proud. The personal satisfaction is higher than years ago, no? I think I just stay more in the moment without thinking so far in front. Just enjoying these moments, hope to share with the family this unforgettable moment, then I’m going to think what’s next for me.”
Nadal ultimately secured his 22nd and final Grand Slam title at Roland Garros later that season. Djokovic surpassed him in major titles by winning his 23rd at the French Open the following year.
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