He’s one of Latin music’s brightest stars and one of the first to cross over into the English-language market… And, now Julio Iglesias is getting his due recognition.

During a special ceremony in his native homeland, the 68-year-old crooner was honored as the best-selling Spanish recording artist of all time in his home country, as well as the best-selling Spanish artist throughout the world.

To date, Iglesias has sold 23 million albums in Spain and more than 300 million albums worldwide, according to Sony Music.

Iglesias received his award from another of Spain’s biggest celebrities, tennis superstar Rafael Nadal. Fresh off his come-from-behind match to give Spain another Davis Cup triumph, Nadal praised his friend—the “great person” behind the famous artist—whose support he has always been able to count on “in difficult moments.”

“Julio can win the hearts of everyone in the world,” said the former World No. 1. “I believe it because, wherever I go, whether it’s Japan or the United States, sooner or later they’ll be playing one of his songs.”

Meanwhile, the Grammy-winning singer—who gave thanks to everyone who purchased his music, attended his concerts and game him their time—called the ceremony “the most important moment” of his 44-year career.

“Tomorrow I’ll think it was all a dream,” said Iglesias, who is probably best known for his hit single “To All The Girls I’ve Loved Before,” a
duet with Willie Nelson.

In a recent interview with Efe, Iglesias said he plans to continue singing, but will lead a much more secluded life by not appearing at awards
ceremonies, particularly after experiencing, he said, “such a magic moment.”