Whether you like or loathe Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios, there is no doubt the sporting maverick is box office – and he knows it.
Some rusted-on fans believe Kyrgios is a wasted talent who lacks decorum, others can’t get enough of his brashness.
Who else could get away with stating the current crop of players on the ATP circuit are ‘boring’ as he prepares to return to the professional circuit following an 18-month hiatus due to injury.
‘We watch sport because we want personalities,’ Kyrgios said ahead of his first round match against British star Jacob Fearnley, which is sure to be a sell-out in Melbourne.
‘Every time I step out on the court, I don’t know if I’m going to be super controversial in a good or bad way.
‘Throughout my career, it hasn’t always been good, but it’s added a lot of excitement.
Whether you like or loathe Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios , there is no doubt he is box office – and he knows it (pictured, with girlfriend Costeen Hatzi)
No one knew what to think when Nick Kyrgios dabbled in commentary at the Open last year – he was a natural
‘I think it’s important. There’s so many good players on the tour now…..but I think there’s not so many contrasting personalities.’
Away from the court, Canberra raised Kyrgios is a savvy operator. But more on that later.
The man who can list victories over Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal on his CV has sponsors lining up to represent him.
Not bad for a bloke who has only collected $8251 in prizemoney since 2022.
Across the course of his career, Kyrgios has lost sponsors due to his conduct, which includes tanking matches, a slur no player wants to be linked to.
Kyrgios also isn’t afraid to speak his mind – just ask Jannik Sinner.
The polarising star knows many Aussies recognise his sheer talent, but are often left frustrated when Kyrgios loses matches he should win.
Like the majority of world class tennis players, the sport has been kind to him financially.
Kyrgios has earnt a reported $12million plus in prizemoney alone since turning professional in 2013 – and while he has occasionally splashed out on luxury items such as a Lamborghini, his girlfriend Costeen Hatzi has been a stable influence.
Nick Kyrgios showcased his supreme talent on his way to the Wimbledon final in 2022 (pictured)
Unable to play at the All England club last year, Kyrgios picked up a gig with the BBC (pictured)
The loved up couple plan to settle down and have children, but Kyrgios is in no hurry.
You get the sense he is enjoying riding the wave as his sporting career reaches it twilight phase – which is also why his other interests have become apparent.
Realistically, no one knew what to think when Kyrgios dabbled in commentary at the Open last year – but he was a natural, with his agent Stuart Duguid blown away by his composure.
‘In terms of commentary, I think if he wants, he can be the best there is. He’s going to keep getting better and better,’ he said.
‘I mean, his tennis IQ is a complete joke – it’s off the charts. It’s probably one of the highest, if not the highest, which is why he’s done so well without a coach.’
The man himself relished being on the other side, and was quick to point out the ‘money is ridiculous’.
Not that he needs it, it was a perfect example of his Jekyll and Hyde personality.
Kyrgios’ off-court interests have caught the eye – a fanatical Boston Celtics supporter, the 29-year-old has invested into NBL club South East Melbourne Phoenix as well as his own foundation and the Miami Pickleball Club.
Beset by injuries since making the Wimbledon final in 2022 against all the odds, deep down Kyrgios probably knows that was his golden chance to win a singles grand slam and silence the doubters.
Some tennis fans believe Kyrgios is a wasted talent, others can’t get enough of his brashness
Once sworn enemies, Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic recently played doubles together at the Brisbane International
But with Kyrgios, expect the unexpected.
Who could have predicted he would win the Australian Open doubles title three years ago with good mate Thanasi Kokkinakis after they entered the tournament ‘for a bit of a laugh.’
In terms of his future, Kyrgios probably doesn’t know himself what projects he will dive into.
Tennis – besides potentially commentating at the four grand slams – appears unlikely given Kyrgios has often said he ‘doesn’t love the sport, he just happens to be good at it.’
With the likes of Duguid in his corner, doors are sure to open.
It all depends whether tennis’ greatest showman since John McEnroe chooses to walk through them.
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