Wizard of Oz Roger Federer becomes oldest Grand Slam winner in 45 years

Roger Federer won his 18th Grand Slam title and put some extra distance on the all-time list between himself and Rafael Nadal, the man he beat in a vintage five-set final at the Australian Open final.

It was the 35-year-old Federer’s first major title since Wimbledon in 2012, his first in Australia since 2010, and it reversed the status quo against his nemesis, Nadal.

“Against Rafa it’s always epic,” Federer said after Sunday’s 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 victory. “This one means a lot to me because he’s caused me problems over the years.”