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Thunder down under: Federer bests Nadal to win fifth Australian Open, 18th major title

Related Topics: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Backhand

MELBOURNE – Five quick thoughts after Roger Federer beat Rafael Nadal 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 to win the 2017 Australian Open men’s singles title, the 18th major of his career.

• Like fighters leaving the locker rooms for an assignation of combat, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal took the court to “walk out” music tonight. Roger Federer chose AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck.” Rafael Nadal chose Calvin Harris’ chirping “You Are the One Thing in My Way.”

Who knew each had such a thing for symbolism?

Federer was the Thunder down Under, both tonight and for the entire tournament.