Roger Federer claimed his 18th Grand Slam title with an incredible five-set win over Rafa Nadal in the Australian Open final.

The 35-year-old, who had not won a major since his Wimbledon triumph in 2012, took the final set in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena after an epic exchange which ebbed and flowed throughout.

The 6-4 3-6 6-1 3-6 6-3 win means Federer is now four Grand Slam titles ahead of his Spanish rival, who remains on 14 with Pete Sampras.

Federer and Nadal produced one of the finest contests their rivalry has ever seen but it was the Swiss that prevailed, winning after three hours and 38 minutes.

It means Federer has secured his fifth Melbourne crown and a first Grand Slam success since Wimbledon in 2012.