Rafael Nadal news: Spaniard reacts to Roger Federer’s message and discusses his schedule

Rafael Nadal celebrates his Australian Open victory

Shahida Jacobs
February 1, 2022

It “meant a lot” to Rafael Nadal to receive a message from his “friend and great rival” Roger Federer following his Australian Open success.

Nadal on Sunday became the first man to win 21 Grand Slams after he produced a sensational comeback against Daniil Medvedev, coming from two sets to love down to beat the Russian in five sets that lasted more than five hours.

It was his second Australian Open title and it also meant he is now one of only four players to win a Career Grand Slam twice as he joined Novak Djokovic, Rod Laver and Roy Emerson on the unique list.

Federer and Djokovic were quick to sent congratulatory messages to the new Grand Slam record holder with the former describing Nadal as his “friend and great rival”.

Rafael Nadal news: Roger Federer pays tribute to his ‘friend and great rival’ after Spaniard bags No 21

The Spaniard was asked Federer’s post on social media by Switzerland’s SRF and replied: “It means a lot to me. We have an amazing relationship, we did amazing things together. For me it’s a great honour to be part of his era.

“Together we have enjoyed and lived amazing moments of the history of our sport. To receive a message like this from him means a lot to me.

“I wish him well, he knows, and I really hope that we will be able to play again in important stages.”

After missing the latter half of the 2021 season, Nadal played two tournaments in Australia as he also competed and won the Melbourne Summer Set.

But when exactly will his fans see him in action again following his success at Melbourne Park on Sunday?

“I have my schedule planned, but I’m enjoying the moment…,” he said. “I need to see how my body recovers from an amazing month and I’m going to make my decision.”

Rafael Nadal Roger Federer