Ex-US Pro Discusses Nick Kyrgios’ ‘Victim’ Narrative and Why It Made Him As Popular as Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer

Nick Kyrgios is regarded as one of the most polarizing personalities in men’s tennis. He was known for his weird characters and attitudes on the court during the era dominated by the likes of Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal. And now, former ATP player Sam Querrey has now shared his views on the Australian star.

Kyrgios had unnecessary feuds with players off the court that became popular, particularly with Nadal. In 2018, he had a beef with Alexander Zverev on the court. In 2021, it was with Djokovic, and on one occasion, he revealed that he couldn’t stand the Serbian legend. He also had a fiery relationship with Stefanos Tsitsipas in 2022, which caused a stir on social media.

Besides that, he has made some controversial comments about players on tour. He’s Jannik Sinner’s fiercest critic after he twice tested positive for clostebol in March last year. Despite the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) agreeing that Sinner should serve a three-month suspension, Kyrgios was not well pleased with the outcome of the suspension.

On some occasions this season, after Sinner won a title, Kyrgios used to post a cryptic message about the Italian star’s victory. During a conversation on the Nothing Major podcast, the panel was discussing their favorite tennis feuds of all time. Former American player Querrey revealed that Kyrgios’ outbursts and controversial comments made him popular:

I feel like he just kind of looks for fights. He thinks he’s all, he kind of plays the victim card all the time for no reason, but that’s his stick. That’s why he’s so popular. If you ask someone around the world, an average sports fan, ‘Who do you want to watch play tennis?’ they’ll say Sinner, Alcaraz, Novak, Federer, Nadal. Kyrgios makes that list because Nick stirs up controversy and has all these, not crazy takes, but outbursts, and that’s what makes him popular.

Kyrgios is set to take part in an exhibition tournament – Atlanta Cup. He will feature alongside Aryna Sabalenka, Ben Shelton, and Naomi Osaka. After that, he then will prepare for the upcoming Battle of the Sexes clash against Sabalenka in Dubai on December 28.

Nick Kyrgios to participate in an exhibition match before the start of the Australian Open

Nick Kyrgios’ hopes of playing at the Australian Open in Melbourne next year have received a major boost after the former Wimbledon finalist was confirmed as a participant in the 1 Point Slam exhibition, where he will join some of the biggest names in tennis. Kyrgios played only five singles matches this season and featured in only one Grand Slam.

The 1 Point Slam will be a mix of 48 professional tennis players, amateurs, and celebrities, who will compete for $1 million. During the tournament, one point will decide the outcome of each match. Speaking about the event, the Australian Open director Craig Tiley noted that it will be an experience for all ages:

Fans can see the world’s best players in must-see showdowns alongside the edge-of-your-seat intensity of the 1 Point Slam, offering world-class tennis at remarkable value. From day one of Opening Week the entire precinct will be open, with charity showdowns lighting up Rod Laver Arena, AO qualifying underway, live entertainment, Kids Tennis Day presented by Emirates, and experiences for all ages.

Kyrgios has made just one Grand Slam appearance since he reached the quarter-finals of the US Open in 2022. He has struggled with injuries since then and he’s yet to compete in singles on tour since the Miami Open in March.

Also Read: (Video) Jannik Sinner Spotted Enjoying Dinner Date with Girlfriend Laila Hasanovic in Dubai

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