Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer hail Rafael Nadal's record win

Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer have congratulated Rafael Nadal 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 (5-7) 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.

Fast forward to Melbourne Park on Sunday and following a classic played out over five hours and 24 minutes, which finally finished at 1.11am local time, Nadal moved clear of Federer and Novak Djokovic as the most successful male player in grand slam history.

Djokovic had denied Nadal in the 2012 final – the first of two finals between the pair in the event – which remains the longest in the history of the Melbourne Park tournament.

While the Serbian was unable to defend the title he won in 2021 due to his visa being cancelled, he talked up the performance of the two finalists.

"Congratulations to Rafael Nadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement," Djokovic posted on Twitter.

"Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time. Enhorabuena.

"Daniil Medvedev gave it his all out there and played with the passion and determination we have come to expect from him."

Congratulations to @RafaelNadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement. Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time. Enhorabuena