
Former World No. 1 and six-time champion Novak Djokovic believes rising star Nick Kyrgios can upset Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer to become the surprise Australian Open champion this year.
Djokovic, who will be making his much anticipated return to competitive tennis after spending six-months out of action due to an elbow injury, played down his own chances. Although, the Serbian acknowledged that both Nadal and Federer are the firm favorites to lift the Norman Brooks Trophy in Melbourne, he sent out a warning to the duo, saying Kyrgios was in great form and has all the potential weapons to defeat them in the Victorian capital.
Djokovic was struggling with an elbow problem when he lost to Denis Istomin of Uzbekistan last year inside a packed Rod Laver Arena, sending shock waves across the tennis world. However, his poor run of form continued in the subsequent tournaments as he was unable to accomplish the kind of results he would have liked. Unable to match his lofty standards from the past, the Monte Carlo resident decided to cut short his season after Wimbledon in July.
Before his arrival in Australia, Djokovic had created enough buzz around his team with his appointment of Andre Agassi as his super coach, former top-10 player Radek Stepanek as full-time coach and Craig O’Shannessy as strategy coach. This was done keeping in mind after Djokovic realized that he needed to get some fresh ideas to reinvigorate his game.
When asked whether he felt Nadal and Federer were the overwhelming favorites or not, Djokovic said: “These two guys, considering the year they had and considering they played finals together here in Australia.”
“They’re definitely two favourites to look at.
“But it’s still open. Nick is in great form. He is a home favourite.
“Australians are always getting great support here. [Thanasi] Kokkinakis is a good player too.
“Anything can happen. It’s a Grand Slam.
“Every player is here with all his heart and energy, trying to do his best.”