Australian Open 2022: Rafael Nadal beats Daniil Medvedev to win 21st Grand Slam title

Rafael Nadal won a record 21st Grand Slam men’s title today as he defeated Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling finale.

The Spaniard took to the stage in Melbourne for his fifth Australian Open final and became champion for only a second time - fighting back from two sets down to win 2-6 6-7 (5-7) 6-4 6-4 7-5 after five hours and 24 minutes of action.

Medvedev, who was going for his second successive major title, was in command before an exceptional comeback from Nadal saw the Russian fall behind.

Nadal previously held the record for the most Grand Slam men’s titles alongside Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, but today’s victory moves him one ahead of his rivals.

The 35-year-old’s achievement comes only months after a foot injury almost forced him out of the tournament, but his 2022 triumph will go down as one of the best of his career.

After receiving the trophy, Nadal said: “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.”

After a disappointing defeat for his opponent, Medvedev said: “We tried our best and hopefully we can have more victories to come. Usually I have my wife here but I think probably the TV is broken.”