At the outer edge of a gilded era for tennis, Nadal added another layer of greatness to his legendary journey. The victory in Melbourne marked not only a record 21st grand slam championship, but also the longest duration between two major titles, nearly 17 years after his first at the French Open in 2005.
Nadal joins an elite club of tennis players that won at least two titles at each of the four majors. The Nadal collection of 21 majors include – 2 Australian Open, 13 French Open, 2 Wimbledon, and 4 US Open titles. Djokovic’s 20 are made up of 9-2-6-3, Roy Emerson 6-2-2-2 and Rod Laver 3-2-4-2. Federer has multiple titles in all the majors, except Roland Garros, where he won just once in 2009.
“A final of Herculean proportions, thank you for a brilliant contest @RafaelNadal and @DaniilMedwed,” exclaimed Rod Laver, the two-time calendar Grand Slam winner. The Aussie legend knows a thing or two about winning at least twice at each of the four majors in tennis. Laver was seen capturing the final moments on his mobile as Rod Laver Arena erupted in joy at the stunning accomplishment of Nadal.
“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.”
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