Rafael Nadal has promised Australian tennis fans he’ll “keep trying” to return to Melbourne Park while admitting he’s no lock to visit again.
The Spanish superstar made history by coming from two sets behind to defeat Daniil Medvedev in a five-set thriller at Rod Laver Arena, 2-6 6-7 (5-7) 6-4 6-4 7-5.
Nadal’s triumph brought up Grand Slam No.21, edging him one major ahead of rivals Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the battle for most men’s singles major titles.
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While another Grand Slam title to his name is an impressive milestone for the 35-year-old, so too was his ability just to make it to the Australian Open this year, following a four-month lay-off due to a foot injury, as well as a battle with COVID-19 in December.
The former world No.1 conceded after his win that he thought this year’s summer of tennis in Melbourne would be his last in Australia.
“One month and a half ago, I said maybe there was a chance that this would be my last Australian Open, but now I have plenty of energy to keep going,” he said in his address at the post-match ceremony.
“I really can’t explain the feelings that I have right now, but I am going to keep trying my best to keep coming next year … See you soon.
“I am here in front of all of you having this trophy with me, and you don’t know how much I worked to be here.
“All the support I received since I arrived – thank you for the support.”
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