RIVALS SEND KUDOS TO NADAL FOR RECORD 21ST GRAND SLAM WIN

Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic congratulated their longtime rival Rafael Nadal after the Spaniard clinched a record all three players have been chasing — a 21st Grand Slam title — with his Australian Open triumph on Sunday.

Nadal’s victory over Daniil Medvedev in a fiveset thriller put him one clear of Federer and world No. 1 Novak Djokovic on the all-time Grand Slam titles race in the men’s singles game.

“What a match! To my friend and great rival, Rafael Nadal. Heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles,” Federer said in a social-media post.

Djokovic had been top-seeded in the draw for the Open, but was unable to play, deported from Australia on the eve of the tournament in a dramatic dispute over the country’s COVID-19 entry requirements and his unvaccinated status.

“Congratulations to @ rafaelnadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement. Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time,” Djokovic posted on social media.

Federer missed the tournament to continue his rehabilitation from knee surgery.

“A few months ago, we were joking about both being on crutches. Amazing. Never underestimate a great champion,” the Swiss player said of Nadal. “I am proud to share this era with you and honoured to play a role in pushing you to achieve more,” Federer added.

“I am sure you have more achievements ahead, but for now enjoy this one!”

❚ Jeremy Colliton has been named the head coach of the Canadian men’s ice hockey team for the Beijing Olympics as Claude Julien is unable to travel after sustaining an injury at a training camp, Hockey Canada said on Sunday.

Julien slipped on ice and sustained fractured ribs during a team-building activity at training camp in Switzerland, the governing body said.

“As per the advice of the team’s medical staff and other medical experts, it was determined that he will be unable to fly to Beijing to participate in the 2022 Olympic Winter Games due to the injury,” the statement added.

Colliton was the head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks for parts of four seasons from 2018 to 2021.

The Beijing Games run Feb. 4-20.