Australian Open star's beautiful act of sportsmanship in defeat

Moments after being knocked out of the Australian Open, Grigor Dimitrov did away with tradition in a beautiful gesture for his friend and conquerer.

On Sunday, American prodigy Francis Tiafoe confirmed his status as tennis’s new cult hero, marking his 21st birthday in style by beating No.20 seed Dimitrov 7-5 7-6 (8-6) 6-7 (1-7) 7-5 in the round of 16.

Dimitrov had every right to be heartbroken after being sent packing in a massive upset.

However he put his disappointment aside to congratulate the man who just beat him.

But he didn’t just stand at the net and wait for Tiafoe to come and shake his hand.

Instead, Dimitrov walked around the net and embraced his friend on the other side of the court, offering a hug and a word of congratulations.

Tiafoe later revealed how close he is with Dimitrov off the court, explaining the brilliant act of sportsmanship.

It was only a simple act, but one that we rarely seen in the cauldron of a grand slam.

Tiafoe’s immediate reward is a career-first showdown on Tuesday with 17-time major winner Rafael Nadal, who trounced Czech veteran Tomas Berdych 6-0 6-1 7-6 (7-4).

Nadal won his sole Australian Open title a decade ago and has been a losing finalist at Melbourne Park on three other occasions.

Nadal is also on the comeback trail, playing his first official tournament since withdrawing midway through his US Open semi-final in September with knee soreness.

“He has everything,” said Nadal of his impending quarter-final encounter with Tiafoe.

“He’s quick. He serve well. Very quick forehand.

“He’s a very dynamic player, an aggressive one.

“Of course, he’s dangerous – he’s in the quarter-finals.”

with AAP