Former world No. 2 Alex Corretja says Rafael Nadal’s stunning comeback in the 2022 Australian Open final might be the turning point in tennis history. Nadal had his back turned against the wall in this year’s Australian Open final as Daniil Medvedev was up by two sets, had a 3-2 lead in the third set and three consecutive break points on the Spaniard’s serve.
Down by two sets, 2-3, 0-40, Nadal was able to work his way back into the match and win a record 21st Grand Slam title. Last week, Nadal defeated Casper Ruud in the French Open and now owns a record 22 Grand Slams – two more than Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
“Turning point of 2022, and who knows, maybe in tennis history,” Corretja tweeted.
¡Turning point of 2022, and who knows, maybe in tennis history 🎾👍🏻! https://t.co/nQAlwVMpz9 — Alex Corretja (@AlexCorretja74) June 9, 2022
Nadal now has the lead over Djokovic
Last year, Djokovic won three Grand Slams to tie Nadal and Federer on the all-time Grand Slam record list with 20 Majors.
Just when it seemed Djokovic would finish with the all-time Grand Slam record, Nadal won the opening two Grand Slams of this season. After winning the Australian Open earlier this year, Nadal admitted it was one of the most emotional and special nights of his life.
“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 I 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”. Now, Nadal is in Spain, where he is undergoing a treatment for his foot. Nadal is hoping to compete at Wimbledon but his participation is in doubt.
Source: Tennis World USA