Rafael Nadal outlasted Daniil Medvedev in an epic Australian Open final, coming back from two sets down to win 2-6, 6-7 (5), 6-4, 6-4, 7-5 in a match that lasted 5 hours, 24 minutes. In the process, Nadal won his 21st Grand Slam title and surged past Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic for most major victories of all time.

Nadal took the mic after his victory and made sure to show his respect for Medvedev. The 35-year-old then got emotional talking about his journey back to the top at the Australian Open, thanking his fans for their support:

This is Nadal's second Australian Open title. His other victory came way back in 2009. Djokovic has consistently dominated this event, but his absence thanks to his COVID-19 vaccine scandal helped open the door for Nadal to win. Medvedev became the favorite to win the tournament with Djokovic out, but he still wasn't able to beat the sixth-seeded Nadal.

There had been some questions as to whether Nadal would compete in this event. He had recently dealt with a long-term foot injury and then also tested positive for COVID-19 in late December, putting some doubt on his Australian Open status.

But Nadal was able to participate, and he certainly made the most of it by winning the whole dang thing. It looked like Medvedev was going to make quick work of the 35-year-old legend, but the Spaniard showed off his exceptional skill and grit by pulling off the incredible comeback.