Nadal sets new ATP record with title win at Melbourne

Rafael Nadal kicked off his 2022 campaign by winning the title at the ATP Melbourne Summer Set event, lifting the trophy to set a new ATP record in the process.

After not playing any competitive tennis since August of last year, the Spaniard made his return from injury in Melbourne. Nadal defeated Maxime Cressy 7-6(6) 6-3 in the final to become the first male player in the Open Era to win a title in 19 consecutive seasons.

The previous record was held by both Roger Federer and Andre Agassi, who had won at least one title in 18 different seasons.

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"I want to thank all the organization here,” Nadal said during the trophy ceremony. “I feel privileged and a very lucky guy to be here again. I am coming back from some challenging moments in terms of injuries, so I can’t be happier.

“It means a lot to be back and with a trophy in my hands. This court has always been very, very special for me.

“The Rod Laver Arena is very, very special for everyone and it is more special because of you guys. You guys are a great crowd and I can’t thank you enough.”