Kyrgios and Kokkinakis announce more double appearances
Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis are looking to continue making a splash in doubles after winning the Australian Open.
by Nikolaus Fink
last edit: Feb 01, 2022, 04:08 pm
In addition to the individual victories of Ashleigh Barty and Rafael Nadal, Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis also made numerous headlines at the Australian Open. With their controversial manner on and off the pitch, the two drew a lot of attention to the doubles competition, which the Australians ultimately won.
"Me and Thanasi went into the tournament knowing the crowds wanted to see something exciting - especially after everything the Australians have been through over the past two years. It's nothing disrespectful to the opposition. We're in Melbourne, it is exciting. We had to use the audience. I think if we don't do that, we're not using our advantage," Kyrgios explained his approach to Sunrise .
Kokkinakis took a similar stance - and didn't spare criticism: "Double players are usually very serious. You know in tennis circles that that's their thing. They need twice the time on the treatment tables and spend half the time on the court. I'll probably get slapped for it."
Waiver of the French Open and Wimbledon
The reason for the successful run in Melbourne was the good chemistry between the two. Therefore, Kyrgios and Kokkinakis want to do more double appearances this year. "In all events throughout the year we will really try to win in doubles," explained Kyrgios.
However, there will be at least two exceptions: the French Open and Wimbledon. Kyrgios recently announced that he would skip the Grand Slam tournament in Paris. The two Australians will not start in London due to the best-of-five format.