MDP Live - Recently, Rafael Nadal replied to a message congratulating Roger Federer after the Spaniard won the 21st Grand Slam title of his career at the 2022 Australian Open.
The former world number 1 has finally broken the men's record with the most number of Grand Slam titles after coming back from two sets down against world number 2 Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final. This achievement received admiration from fellow tennis players, including Swiss tennis star Roger Federer.
A 20-year-old Grand Slam title, Federer took to Instagram to congratulate the Spaniard on becoming the first male player to win 21 Grand Slam titles. He also admitted that he felt great about his role in helping the Spaniard to achieve such remarkable achievements.
“To my friend and toughest rival @rafaelnadal, congratulations on becoming the first male player to win 21 Grand Slam titles. A few weeks ago we joked about using crutches. It's amazing, never underestimate a true champion. Your extraordinary work ethic, dedication and fighting spirit are an inspiration to me and countless individuals around the world. 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 over the past 18 seasons. I'm sure you can achieve more in the future, but for now, enjoy the moment," Federer wrote.
Speaking to Swiss-German media in Melbourne, the Spaniard said he would answer the message to Federer personally.
"I will tell him personally. I can't do it yet, answer it, but yeah, it means a lot to me. We have an amazing relationship. We did amazing things together, for me it's a great honor to be a part of his era," said Nadal.
"I think we brought to life some of the most amazing moments in the history of this sport. And you know, getting that message from him meant a lot to me."
"I wish him a speedy recovery, I really hope we will be able to play against each other again in such a prestigious tournament."
Towards the end of the interview, he insisted that he was unsure about whether he could win the Australian Open title before arriving in Melbourne.
"I never thought that I would get the chance to enjoy this again, it's impossible to imagine a day like this a few seasons ago. I think I trained hard, my team and family were by my side to support me in difficult times. I wasn't ready for a match like that. It was a big surprise, the most unexpected thing in my tennis career. But yes, it is very, very special," said Nadal.
