Australian Open: Nick Kyrgios is more than just tennis
Nick Kyrgios will start the Australian Open against Lorenzo Sonego on Tuesday (not before 9:00 a.m.CET). For the 24-year-old, however, it is more than just forehand and backhand.
by Nikolaus Fink
last edit: Jan 20, 2020, 01:34 pm
It wasn't always easy for Nick Kyrgios - not even in Australia. This year, however, it seems that the 24-year-old was able to earn the recognition of his compatriots almost without exception. However, this did not happen through sporting achievements, but rather through his pioneering role for the victims of the devastating bush fires.
On the initiative of the Australian, numerous tennis players donated money for those affected, and Tennis Australia also hosted the world ranking 26 after vehement pressure. a rally for relief . But Kyrgios not only showed his best side at the beginning of the year, the Enfant terrible also did well in terms of sport.
Possible round of 16 against Nadal
At the ATP Cup, the Australian won three of his four games and, as is so often the case in the run-up to Grand Slam tournaments, developed the role of a dangerous outsider. Rafael Nadal in particular is likely to have swallowed hard in the draw, as the first in the world rankings faces a knockout round with Kyrgios .
But the 24-year-old does not want to deal with this possible highlight match yet. "I haven't looked ahead in the draw yet. All players can play tennis really well on their day," said Kyrgios before his first round encounter against Italian Lorenzo Sonego.
Kyrgios: "I'm looking forward to the tournament"
Due to the bush fires in Australia, Kyrgios is currently more worried than tennis. "People lose their families and their homes. It is not easy to focus on tennis only if you put things in perspective," said the Australian.
Nonetheless, Kyrgios has big plans for the Australian Open. "I feel like I'm currently doing everything I can to get the best performance out of me. It's been a great start to the year and I'm looking forward to the tournament." And who knows, maybe Kyrgios can secure the recognition of his compatriots in Melbourne.
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