Nick Kyrgios (zimbio.com)
Nick Kyrgios’ rise to the top of the men’s game continues to be a roller coaster experience for both himself and his fans.
On Tuesday, the Australian suffered an early exit at the Lyon Open. Facing Argentina’s Nicolas Kicker, Kyrgios failed to generate a consistent level of play as he went out 2-6, 6-4, 6-2, to the world No.94. The performance can be summarised best by the statistics. 16 aces, nine double faults and a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct.
The disappointing display is a setback for the Australian ahead of the French Open, but it is by no means a disaster. Kyrgios has already illustrated his talent this season with a series of impressive results. In Miami he defeated Novak Djokovic for the second time this season to progress to his first Masters 1000 semifinal.
“I’ve had some great memories already this season.” Kyrgios said during an interview with atpworldtour.com. “Obviously beating Djokovic twice in a row in the states was a great couple of weeks for me.”
“That match against Federer also stands out for me. I think it was one of the best matches I played outside of a grand slam. That was a match I won’t ever forget.”
Known in the past for his temperamental behaviour, 2017 has seen a blossoming in maturity from the 22-year-old. He now appears to be more reflective about his tennis and relaxed both on and off the court. Kyrgios is still far from perfect, but so are many other players.
“I think my game at the moment is in the right frame of mind. I can play some really good tennis. My level is there, I just need to stay healthy.” He explained.
Envious of others
In an age group that will one day replace the ‘big four’ on the men’s tour, 20-year-old Alexander Zverev could be one of Kyrgios’ biggest rivals in the future. On Sunday the German rising star clinched his maiden Masters title in Rome as he dismissed Djokovic in straight sets. The triumph has elevated Zverev into the world’s top-10, making him the youngest player to achieve the milestone since Juan Martin del Potro in 2008.
“He’s been playing great tennis. He’s got a massive future ahead.” Kyrgios said about Zverev.
“I actually envy him in a way. He does all the right things, he is very professional. That’s some I obviously don’t quite tick the box at.”
On the other hand, the Australian does have a 4-0 head-to-head lead over Zverev (including junior tournaments). This season Kyrgios defeated the rising star in both Miami and Indian Wells.
It isn’t just Zverev that has received high praise from Kyrgios. World No.1 Andy Murray is another recipient. The three-time grand slam champion has previously defended Kyrgios amid controversy. During the 2016 Wimbledon Championships, Murray accused the media of ‘trying to wind Kyrgios up.’
“He (Murray) is probably one of my best mates on the tour.” Said Kyrgios.
“Every time we’re in the locker room we’ll talk, have great banter. He’s a guy that has always been nice to me. He always has my back. When I can talk about something, I can always go to him.”
Kyrgios will be the 18th seed in next week’s French Open. Aided with a better mentality, he will be bidding to progress to the fourth round of the tournament for the first time in his career.