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Nicolas Kiefer called Rafael Nadal "the greatest athlete of all time" after the Spaniard's victory at the Australian Open. Nadal was facing a straight-set defeat in the Australian Open final before he created a stunning comeback to beat Daniil Medvedev 2-6 6-7 (5) 6-4 6-4 7-5.
Nadal now owns a record 21 Grand Slams. 35-year-old Nadal defeated Medvedev after more than five hours of play. "GREATEST. ATHLETE. OF. ALL. TIME," Kiefer tweeted after Nadal won the Australian Open.
Kiefer added more praise on Nadal
"21!
Incredible achievement. The most focused player. What an inspiration. Never giving up, always making little adjustments to his game is absolutely outstanding! What an example! Congrats, @RafaelNadal - to you and your team. Legend player and ambassador for tennis," Kiefer said in another tweet.
Nadal described the win as one of the most emotional of his career. “It was one of the most emotional matches of my career,” Nadal said during the trophy ceremony. “To share the court with Daniil was just an honour.
It is amazing. To be honest, one and a half months ago I wasn’t sure if was able to be back on the Tour playing tennis again. But today I am here in front of all of you with this trophy in front of me. You are just amazing, thank you so much”.
The crowd showed great support to Nadal and he appreciated it. “Having the huge support I received over the past three weeks is going to stay in my heart for the rest of my life, so thank you very much,” Nadal added.
Novak Djokovic was one of many that congratulated Nadal on the Australian Open title. "Congratulations to @RafaelNadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement. Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time. Enhorabuena.
@Medwed33 gave it his all out there and played with the passion and determination we have come to expect from him."