The Aussie has openly supported the World No. 1 during the latter’s visa fiasco, often speaking out against his own government and also against players like Rafael Nadal and Stefanos Tsitsipas. He has discussed the topic numerous times throughout the past couple of weeks, even highlighting how the Serb had helped Australia by donating money when bushfires ravaged the nation.
Kyrgios’ words and gestures have not gone unnoticed by the Serb, who personally thanked the Aussie for all his support on Instagram.
This comes in stark contrast to their relationship before this incident. Kyrgios would often take aim at the Serb when the latter found himself embroiled in controversy, particularly during the much-maligned Adria tour.
Speaking to the media after beating Broady, Kyrgios admitted to having “differences” with Djokovic in the past but stressed he would have supported anyone if they were in the Serb’s situation.
In recent weeks, the Aussie’s actions have made him immensely popular amongst Serbians, with fellow pro Dusan Lajovic recently calling him “Nick the Serb.” Kyrgios explained that he did not support Djokovic in order to get into the good books of the Serbian people, but rather because he felt it was the right thing to do.
Kyrgios will face World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev in the second round of the Australian Open. Medvedev is the bookies outright favorite to win the tournament in the absence of Djokovic.
When asked for his thoughts on the upcoming match against Medvedev, Kyrgios expressed his excitement at facing the Russian, calling him the “best” in the world.
“I feel like those matches still excite me” - Nick Kyrgios on second-round contest with Daniil Medvedev
During the press conference, the Aussie revealed that he was still highly motivated to face a top-quality opponent. Kyrgios, however, admitted he would burden himself with expectations.
The 26-year-old explained that Medvedev is a “hard-worker” who “ticks all the boxes.
Also check out: Updated ATP Men’s Tennis Rankings
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