Rafael Nadal is one of the greatest tennis players of all time, His reaction to Novak Djokovic, equaling his record of 22 Grand Slam titles with a 10th Australian Open title, was one of admiration and respect.

Nadal, who has won 19 Grand Slam titles himself, quickly congratulated Djokovic on his achievement. In a post on social media, Nadal wrote: "Congratulations @DjokerNole for your 10th title in Australia. It's an amazing achievement, I'm sure you will keep fighting for more."

The Spaniard also took the opportunity to thank the fans for their support throughout the tournament. He said: "Thanks to all the fans around the world for your support during this tournament. It was an incredible experience and I am very proud of my performance."

Nadal has been a long-time rival of Djokovic, having faced off against him in some epic matches over the years. The two have been locked in a battle for supremacy at the top of men's tennis for many years now, and it is clear that Nadal holds Djokovic in high regard.

In an interview after Djokovic's victory, Nadal said: "Novak is an incredible champion and he deserves this victory today. He has worked hard to get here and I congratulate him on his success."

Nadal also spoke about how he felt when he first achieved 22 Grand Slam titles back in 2019: "When I won my 22nd Grand Slam title it was a very special moment for me because it meant that I had achieved something that no other man had done before me. It was a great feeling knowing that I had reached such a milestone in my career."

He went on to say: "I am sure Novak feels exactly the same way right now as he celebrates his 10th Australian Open title and equals my record of 22 Grand Slam titles."

It is clear from these comments that Nadal holds Djokovic in high regard and respects him as an opponent and fellow champion. The two have had some epic battles over the years, but they have always shown each other respect both on and off court.

This mutual respect between them is what makes their rivalry so special, as they both strive to be the best player they can be while still showing each other respect along the way.

Nadal may not have been able to win this year's Australian Open title but he can take pride in knowing that he has achieved something no other man has done before him - winning 22 Grand Slam titles - and that Novak Djokovic now shares this honour with him.