Nadal all class with tribute to natural disaster victims
Having claimed his 16th grand slam title, Rafael Nadal once again showed his true class with a heartwarming tribute to victims of recent natural disasters.
The world no.1 overpowered Kevin Anderson to win the US Open title at Flushing Meadows in straight sets.
* SWEET 16: Nadal closes in on Federer's grand slam record
Nadal had too much class for the South African as he raced away to a 6-3 6-3 6-4 win on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The 31-year-old used his post-match victory speech to again show why he's one of the nicest guys in tennis by paying his respects to victims of the earthquake in Mexico and the two hurricanes that devastated the Americas.
"I just want to say a few words about the earthquake that happened in Mexico and the hurricane that happened in the Caribbean and Florida, I'm just so sorry for all the victims," Nadal said.
"It's a very sad moment for our world but it's a moment to be strong and to fight to be back. It's impossible to control these natural disasters.
"So all the best for all the victims and all the people who are suffering."
Nadal reserved particular praise for his uncle Toni, the man who has coached the Spaniard his whole career but will step down from his team at the end of the year.
"I cannot thank him enough," Nadal said.
"Without him I would not be here playing tennis. He gave me strength and motivation. When I had injury problems I got through them because of him."
"It's a very special two weeks for me. It's unbelievable what's happened this year after some seasons with serious injuries and not playing very well," Nadal said.
"It's been an emotional year since the Australian Open. I played a high level of tennis and winning here in New York again it’s unbelievable."
Nadal's victory saw him move just three grand slam titles away from Roger Federer's record of 19.
For the Spaniard it was his third US Open title and the first since 2013.
"It is a very special two weeks for me, but first I want to say congratulations to Kevin who has come back better than ever after some tough injuries. You are a great example to all the players on tour," Nadal said.
"To close the Grand Slam year with a win in New York, brings me to a higher energy because the crowd is unbelievable here."
Anderson was also quick to praise his Spanish conqueror, who managed to finish the season with two majors and a runner-up finish at the Australian Open.
"I want to congratulate Rafa. I know we are the same age but I feel I have been watching you my whole life. You are an idol of mine and you are a great ambassador for our sport," Anderson said.
"I want to say thank you for the support from back home in South Africa, to my wife and my brother, but also my parent back home. You built me a wall in my back yard and taught me to fight for everything."
