Roger Federer hailed his great rival Rafael Nadal as an “inspiration” and offered heartfelt congratulations after the Spaniard fought back from two sets down to win a record 21st grand slam title at the Australian Open.
A 2-6 6-7 (5) 6-4 6-4 7-5 victory for the 35-year-old over Daniil Medvedev occurred months after he had been pictured on crutches while he battled a chronic foot problem that left him contemplating retirement.
