The controversial Nick Kyrgios is ‘one of the nicest’ players on the tour according to his German rival Alexander Zverev.
Zverev jumped the defence of Kyrgios ahead of the Hopman Cup, where both players will be participating in. This year has seen the Australian rising star achieve both highs and lows in his career. Claiming a trio of titles, including his first ATP 500 trophy in Japan, Kyrgios’ season came to an early halt following a suspension from the tour for ‘unsportsmanlike conduct’ during the Shanghai Masters.
Kyrgios’ suspension was ended early after he agreed to speak with a sports psychologist under a ‘care plan’ proposed by the ATP. Still the ‘bad boy’ stigma remains associated with the 21-year-old, but Zverev believes the media portrayal of Kyrgios isn’t a true reflection of him.
“We’re pretty good friends,” Zverev told Australian media. “He’s actually a very nice guy off court, he’s a very interesting guy. I know there has been a little bit of bad media about him but actually he’s one of the nicest guys on tour I think”
Ironically Kyrgios’ suspension occurred following his match against Zverev’s brother Mischa at the Shanghai Masters. Throughout the encounter, he appeared to tanking during certain points and displaying minimal effort in the match. Furthermore, Kyrgios also engaged in a heated confrontation with a member of the crowd.
“It’s not for me to judge really. Not that I don’t care how he performs on court, but that match that you guys all talk about was against my brother and that took him back into the top 100 so I have nothing against that.” The German said.
“Off-court he is one of the nicest guys on tour and we get along well and keep in touch all the time so I have nothing bad to say against him.”
Regardless of the controversy, Kyrgios is one of the most promising young stars in men’s tennis. ATP Analyst Craig O’Shannessy rated the Australian as the fifth best server since 1991 with a 290.7 scoring. The score is calculated by using the percentages of six serving components.
Zverev Targets a strong start
Unlike his Australian friend, Zverev is not a controversial figure on the men’s tour. This season he won his maiden ATP title in the St. Petersburg, Russia, before breaking into the world’s top 20 at the age of 19. Certain to be seeded at next month’s Australian Open for the first time in his career, the German is aiming for a strong start to his season at the Hopman Cup.
“It’s been a great event to start the year off,” he said. “It gives you a big advantage playing a few matches here. It’s also a very fun event.”
As his enthusiasm for the Perth event blossoms, Zverev faces tough matches against Richard Gasquet, Dan Evans and 17-time major champion Roger Federer. In the mixed competition, he will be pairing up with Andrea Petkovic.
