"That's not the real prize money, you have to pay tax, and it's a lot of money" - When Rafael Nadal joked about his $3.6 million haul for US Open win
Rafael Nadal won his second US Open in 2013, bringing his total Grand Slam titles to 13. That same year, he also claimed the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Open, completing the Summer Slam. He joked afterwards about the $3.6 million prize money he earned from these three tournaments.
Nadal defeated home favorite Milos Raonic in straight sets in the Montreal final to claim his third title there. He quickly followed this with a victory over American John Isner in Cincinnati and capped off his incredible run by winning the New York Major, overcoming arch-rival Novak Djokovic 6-2, 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 in the championship match.
The Spaniard joined an elite group of only two athletes before him—Andy Roddick and Patrick Rafter—who had achieved this feat. He also earned substantial prize money, which he humorously mentioned during a press conference after his victory at Flushing Meadows.
"The prize money is great for the sport," Nadal said. "The sport is bigger and bigger. Is a lot of money, is true. The only thing that we can say is thanks to the US Open, US Open Series, for that improvement on our sport."
"They are making a big effort on increase the prize money for the players. Just say thanks. At the end, it's a lot of money anyway. But that's not the real prize money. You have to pay the tax, and in Spain today it is 56, I think. Anyways, a lot of money, yeah. Is more than half. Is more than half less, and then is Euros (laughter)," he added.
Rafael Nadal on US Open 2013 win: "Means a lot for me have this trophy"
Rafael Nadal reflected on his 2013 US Open title during the press conference, calling it one of the most meaningful wins of his career in what was likely his "most emotional" season.
On his way to victory, the former World No. 1 defeated Ryan Harrison, Rogerio Dutra da Silva, Ivan Dodig, Philipp Kohlschreiber, Tommy Robredo, Richard Gasquet, and Novak Djokovic.
"For a few things this season is probably the most emotional one in my career. I felt that I did everything right to have my chance here," Nadal said.
"So, you know, you play one match against one of the best players of the history like this, Novak, No. 1 in the world, probably on probably his favorite surface, so I have to be almost perfect to win I say the other day here. Means a lot for me have this trophy with me today," he added.
The Spaniard continued:
"Very, very happy, and just thank you very much everybody who helped me to make that possible. It is a really special moment for me. Many thanks to everybody, all the fans and all the team and all the family."