Rafael Nadal ‘a genetic freak of nature,’ claims former British number one
Greg Rusedski feels Rafael Nadal winning a record 21st Grand Slam is “probably the “greatest accomplishment in his career” and praised his “mental fortitude.”
Newly crowned Australian Open champion Nadal made history when he overturned a two set deficit against US Open winner Daniil Medvedev to win a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam.
Nadal looked down and out after losing the first two sets and was just a few games away from defeat before a miraculous comeback saw him win the remaining three sets.
The Spanish legend is the first player to achieve such a monumental achievement after Roger Federer has been recovering from knee surgery and Novak Djokovic was deported just one day before the Slam started.
Prior to the ‘Happy Slam’ all three were tied with an incredible 20 Grand Slams each as they compete against each other to end their careers as the most successful male player of all time.
Speaking on Tennis.com, Rusedski said “he (Nadal) is a genetic freak of nature and also, his mental fortitude is second to none. If you wanted one guy playing for your life for one match, he is your man. What he’s done is sensational.
“We have a little bit of back story here as well. Let’s not forget in September, the picture on the crutches. He wasn’t putting any weight on that foot we’re talking about.
“[Then he] comes out, starts the year, wins two events in Melbourne. The lead up tournament, then the Australian Open to win his 21st Slam.
“As you said, two sets down, love-40, 3-2, we’re thinking ‘this is curtains! No way he’s getting back!’
“Rafa just showed us the fortitude to fight. Let’s not forget that crowd. That crowd was insane, how much they were behind Rafa, wanting to see history happen as well. For me, probably his greatest accomplishment in his career,” Rusedski claimed.
“Yes, we can talk about 13 French Opens which will never be broken. But this in itself against Daniil Medvedev was truly amazing.”
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