Novak Djokovic reacts to Kyrgios sweep: "He's not a bad guy"
Novak Djokovic has responded to Nick Kyrgios's sweep . The Australian accused the world number one of a “pathological compulsion to want to be loved by everyone”. The Serb reacted coolly to the taunts and showed empathy.
by tennisnet.com
last edit:
Jun 19, 2019, 07:40 pm
"Everyone criticizes Nick Kyrgios for his behavior. I told him he can contact me at any time if he needs help. At the beginning of my career I had to deal with similar problems. Something has changed, but I can't say what, ”Djokovic told Serbian journalists on Wednesday.
"I really don't think he's a bad guy. I can't quite explain why he says the things he says. Maybe he's looking for attention. But I try to respect everyone, I do that with him too, ”continued Djokovic.
Only a few days ago, Kyrgios stuck to his statements as part of the classic lawn at the Queen's Club in London. The 24-year-old confirmed that he was only honest. Above all, the cheering gestures of the 15-time Grand Slam winner annoy Kyrgios, although he is convinced of his tennis. He believes that one day Djokovic will surpass Roger Federer's 20 major wins.
Novak Djokovic waives tournament before Wimbledon
"I had the opportunity to meet him personally," explained Djokovic. "It must have been five years ago, but on the fringes of the US Open I offered him my support." Kyrgios has so far not accepted this.
While Kyrgios still has to wait for his opening match in London against Lucky Loser Pablo Carballes Baena (s'Hertogenbosch winner Adrian Mannarino withdrew due to an injury to his left hand), Djokovic is preparing for Wimbledon in Serbia. He is currently training in the academy of his compatriot Janko Tipsarevic on hard court and, like Dominic Thiem and Rafael Nadal, does without a preparation tournament.