PHOTOS/VIDEO: Rafael Nadal wins the Melbourne Summer Set 2022!

Victory tastes sweeter when it comes via the long route and after 13 years Rafael Nadal is savouring just his second title on Australian soil as the Melbourne Summer Set champion.

Nadal’s 89th career singles title came via a 7-6(6) 6-3 triumph over American qualifier Maxime Cressy on Sunday night in the Spaniard’s first tour event since he called time on last season in August due to a left foot injury.

The only previous occasion the 20-time major champion had sunk his teeth into a champion’s trophy Down Under came at Australian Open 2009.

His first hard-court title since Acapulco nearly two years ago came even sweeter on the court named after one of his idols.

“(There have) been tremendously challenging moments and everybody's making big efforts to make this happen so I feel privileged, a very lucky guy to be here again,” Nadal said.

“I'm coming back from some challenging moments in terms of injuries, so I can't be happier today. 

“It means a lot to be back with a trophy in my hands after everything… This court has been always very, very special for me. I've enjoyed unbelievable moments here. The name of this court – Rod Laver Arena – is very, very special for everyone… A lot of emotions I enjoyed here.”

Source: Australian Open

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