Rafael Nadal's top five memorable comebacks

Rafael Nadal is unquestionably one of the greatest athletes in sports history, known for his work ethic and capacity to play extended matches with the same level of intensity. As a tennis player, he has won 22 Grand Slam titles, two Olympic gold medals (one in singles and one in doubles), and a great deal of respect from his opponents.

However, on one unfortunate evening earlier this year, the most beloved tennis player announced the date of his retirement. 

As the Spanish tennis icon has just retired from the game, let's examine the top five Rafael Nadal comebacks.

5. Rafael Nadal vs Alexander Zverev, 2016 Indian Wells Masters

During the Indian Wells Masters in 2016, Nadal faced Alexander Zverev for the first time. Seeded fourth at the ATP 1000 Masters, Nadal locked horns against Germany’s Zverev in the fourth round. With a 6-7 (10-8) victory in the opening set, the German tennis star stunned Nadal. Nevertheless, Zverev was later humiliated by the Spaniard, who won 6-7 (10-8), 6-0, 7-5. 

Although Zverev was ahead in the inter-generational match, Nadal's masterclass demonstrated his abilities on the court.

4. Rafael Nadal vs David Nalbandian, 2009 Indian Wells Masters

In the summit match, Rafael Nadal defeated British player Andy Murray 6-1, 6-2 to win the 2009 Indian Wells Masters. However, the Spaniard faced off against former Argentine tennis player David Nalbandian in a close match before making it to the final.

Even in the second set, the Argentine pushed Nadal to the limit after winning the first one with ease. However, Nadal prevailed in the second set and made a statement by bageling (6-0) Nalbandian in the decider.

3. Rafael Nadal vs. Novak Djokovic, 2009 Madrid Open

Nadal, who was seeded first, had won all of his sets prior to facing Novak Djokovic of Serbia in the semi-finals. Nadal, the clear favorite to win the title, lost the opening set 3-6, and Djokovic came close to winning the match. 

However, with the final score of 3-6, 7-5 (7-5), 7-6 (11-9), the "King of Clay" secured a historic comeback victory over Djokovic by forcing the other two sets into a tiebreak.

2. Rafael Nadal vs. Lucas Pouille, 2017 China Open

At the 2017 China Open, Nadal faced France's Lucas Pouille in the Round of 32 and interestingly, it was the last meeting between the pair on the tour. Pouille was in pole position to win the match in straight sets after winning the opening set 4-6. Nadal kept his calm as unforced errors by the French player on crucial points gave him control of the match.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion, however, fought back and prevailed 8–6 after forcing the set into a tiebreaker. In the end, Nadal won 4-6, 7-6 (8-6), 7-5. 

1. Rafael Nadal vs. Daniil Medvedev, 2022 Australian Open

In the 2022 Australian Open final match against Russia's Daniil Medvedev, the Spanish legend unquestionably orchestrated the greatest tennis comeback of the 21st century. The 2021 US Open champion was just one point away from winning the third set after winning the first two.

However, the Spaniard defeated Medvedev in five sets after putting on an incredible comeback. It was Nadal's 21st Grand Slam victory.

Cover Credits - Tennis.com