Rafael Nadal produced a brilliant performance to reach the Australian Open final for the first time since 2014. The world No. 9 defeated Grigor Dimitrov in a five-set thriller on Friday.
Nadal clinched the marathon match 6-3, 5-7, 7-6 (7-5), 6-7 (4-7), 6-4 in four hours and 56 minutes against Dimitrov, who is often called ‘baby Federer’. This was the 30-year-old Nadal’s second five-setter in the tournament after his quarterfinal clash against Alexander Zverev.
The Spaniard will now face his long-time rival Roger Federer in an exciting ninth grand slam final.
Here are the top five quotes by Rafael Nadal after his thrilling victory –
On semifinal vs Dimitrov: These kinds of matches destroy your body but that’s tennis, and that’s special. Much more special than playing best of three (sets).
On the fans’ support: I was tired and Grigor (Dimitrov) was playing unbelievable. It was a great match. I feel very happy now to be part of it. I enjoy it a lot. The crowd was just amazing.”
On playing Federer: I feel that this rivalry is talked about outside the tennis world and that is good for our sport. The combination of two different styles, that makes the matches really special.
{{/usCountry}}On playing Federer: I feel that this rivalry is talked about outside the tennis world and that is good for our sport. The combination of two different styles, that makes the matches really special.
{{/usCountry}}On his and Federer’s resurgent form: It’s special to play with Roger again in the final of a Grand Slam. I cannot lie. I’m very happy for me, and very happy for him (Federer), because we are going to be in a very nice moment.
On his brilliant run of form: I didn’t think of being where I am today, but I always had confidence that if I can win some matches anything can happen.