Nick Kyrgios is preparing for his first Australian Open in three years, confident that he can compete with anyone despite missing a significant amount of time due to injury.
The Australian tennis star, who has not played a singles match in 18 months, will face British No. 3 Jacob Fearnley in the first round of the Melbourne Grand Slam. Kyrgios, 29, has had to manage an abdominal strain ahead of the tournament but remains upbeat about his chances.
“I’ve beaten pretty much everyone the sport has put in front of me,” said Kyrgios. “I’m always going to back my ability. People tell me to be realistic, but I don’t have that mindset. I believe I can win against anyone if I play my style of tennis.”
Kyrgios reflected on his earlier success, recalling his victories over top players like Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer. “If I had been realistic when I first played them, I probably wouldn’t have won. A kid from Canberra taking on the top guys, you can’t be realistic about that,” he explained.
Known for his unpredictable style, Kyrgios emphasized that tennis needs personalities like his to keep the sport exciting. “We watch sport for the drama, the theatre. My return adds a bit of mystery. Every time I step on court, I don’t know whether it’s going to be good or bad, but it adds excitement to the game.”
The Australian also acknowledged that tennis had been “mundane” without players who bring something different to the game. “The sport was getting a bit mundane. There are so many good players now, but not all of them have contrasting personalities. I think it’s healthy for the sport that I’m back.”
Despite his limited play since 2022, Kyrgios remains confident in his abilities. “It’s just part of the game, the little niggles,” he said about his abdominal strain. “As long as it’s not like my wrist again, I can manage it.”
Kyrgios’ first opponent, Jacob Fearnley, has been in impressive form, recently defeating Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon. “He’s been knocking on the door with great results,” Kyrgios said. “He’s extremely confident and has been in good form. He’ll bring his best tennis, and I won’t underestimate him.”
With only a few matches under his belt in recent months, Kyrgios is focused on improving his game. “I haven’t played many matches, so I’m still finding my feet. I’ll be well-prepared for him, and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Kyrgios has also been vocal in recent months about world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, calling for a ban after the Italian’s two positive drug tests. Sinner’s case remains under investigation, with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealing a tribunal’s decision that found Sinner was not at fault for contamination. If found guilty, Sinner could face a suspension of up to two years.
As Kyrgios heads into the Australian Open, all eyes will be on his return and his quest for success on his home turf.
Related Topics
- Madison Keys Advances to Adelaide Final, Continuing Strong Tennis Record in Australia
- Andy Murray Offers Support to Djokovic Ahead of Australian Open
- Kecmanovic Reaches Adelaide Open Semifinals
