Roger Federer 'would have been happy to share' Australian Open title with Rafael Nadal after sealing 18th Grand Slam triumph

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Roger Federer admits he would have taken a draw in the final of the Australian Open, after his five set victory over Rafael Nadal confirmed an 18th Grand Slam title.

The 35-year-old became the second-oldest Major winner in the open era as he defeated his great rival 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in a thrilling contest in Melbourne.

It is the Swiss' first Grand Slam win in five years, and saw him pitted against a great rival with whom he would have been happy to share his glory.

Roger Federer holds aloft the Australian Open trophy after beating Rafael Nadal on Sunday

The 35-year-old celebrates after the challenge system confirmed his victory in Melbourne

Federer afterwards paid tribute to the Spaniard and said: 'Tennis is a tough sport, there are no draws but if there were I would have been happy to share it with Rafa.

'When we saw each other four or five months ago (at Nadal's academy) we never believed we could be in the finals. 

'I'm very happy for you, I would have been happy to lose.

'I work hard but try not to shout about it. It has been a different last six months and I wasn't sure I would make it here.'

Nadal added: 'Congrats to Roger, it's amazing how he is playing without being on the tour.

'It has been a great month for me, I really enjoyed it.'

Rafael Nadal and Federer embrace at the net at the conclusion of the final on Rod Laver Arena

Federer's 18th Grand Slam title has made him the second oldest male winner in the open era