If there's one thing we've learned over the years, it's to never count Rafa out.

On Sunday at the Australian Open, less than a month after beginning an uncertain comeback campaign following a lengthy layoff, Rafael Nadal roared back from two-sets-to-love down against Daniil Medvedev to capture a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title. “It was one of the most emotional matches of my career... It is amazing," said Nadal. "To be honest, one and a half months ago I wasn’t sure if I was able to be back on the Tour playing tennis again. But today I am here in front of all of you with this trophy in front of me." With his dramatic victory, Nadal claimed sole ownership of the record for the most men’s singles Grand Slam titles, moving past Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. The pair were quick to congratulate Nadal on his achievement:

• Federer: "To my friend and great rival Rafael Nadal. Heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles. A few months ago we were joking about both being on crutches. Amazing."

• Djokovic: "Congratulations to Rafael Nadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement. Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time. Enhorabuena."

By The Numbers...

• Nadal won his first Grand Slam title at 2005 Roland Garros, two days after his 19th birthday. Now 35, he is the third-oldest man in the Open Era to win a major.

• He is the second player in the Open Era alongside Djokovic to win each of the four majors at least twice. His Grand Slam titles haul: Roland Garros (13), US Open (4), Wimbledon (2), Australian Open (2).

• This is the fourth time in his career he's come back from two-sets-to-love down.

• Nadal finishes January with a perfect 10-0 match record.