In his first Test since serving a one-month ban for testing positive to cocaine, the South Africa spearhead rattled reigning World Test champions Australia with 5-51 in the 2025 final.
It appeared Rabada had a point to prove following his off-field misdemeanour.
"That wasn't my best moment, as I've alluded to," the 30-year-old said about getting caught using cocaine.
"Life moves on.
"I think every game that I play for South Africa, I try to do my best.
"I don't try to give any more, or any less effort than I usually do in all the games that I play for South Africa."
During his 17th five-wicket haul, Rabada overtook the legendary Allan Donald on 330 career scalps to move into fourth overall for South Africa.
Only Dale Steyn, Shaun Pollock, and Makhaya Ntini remain ahead of him.
"To be named in that list of bowlers is special," Rabada said.
"As a player, growing up and representing South Africa, I've been inspired by those who've come before and what they've done on the big stage.
"As a kid, I was inspired to want to do the same thing.
"To be in that list of names is something special. Long may it continue."
Despite South Africa's promising opening day ending with Australia grabbing the advantage, Rabada was still at his dry, self-depreciating best.
When asked why he stood out among this generation of fast bowlers, Rabada took a long pause, before replying: "Lots been making me stand out in recent times..."
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