Nick Kyrgios, whether it was a justified title or not, was once the bad boy of tennis.
He was abrasive and aggressive at times, and never really seemed to take the sport too seriously, always ready to pull out his bag of tricks to entertain the crowd and frustrate his opponent.
However, in recent years that facade has faded somewhat, and in its place has emerged an affluent and calm pundit who offers insightful and fair views on the sport.
Few expected this turnaround, and even fewer people would have predicted the subsequent relationship he would strike up with Novak Djokovic despite their outstanding differences when on the court.
Nick Kyrgios reveals conversation he had with Novak Djokovic
Ironically, it seems like this friendship was forged in 2022, when the Serbian superstar actually beat Nick Kyrgios in the Wimbledon final.
It was a crushing defeat for the 29-year-old, who actually took a one-set lead, but in the end could not sustain his stunning brand of tennis to win his first-ever Grand Slam title.
However, the extent of their relationship was brilliantly exhibited in January’s Australian Open, where the Aussie’s punditry career began.
Their interviews together showcased a warmth and camaraderie that few would have expected after Djokovic had seemingly crushed the dreams of his newfound friend.
And now, as was reported just yesterday, the two are actually planning to warm up together during the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s day off from Wimbledon action.
It was relayed by Tennis Majors: ‘On ESPN, Nick Kyrgios says he’s been in touch with Novak Djokovic and he’ll be warming up for his next match if he wins today.’
Kyrgios then took to X to offer further insight: ‘Hitting with Novak tomorrow on his day off. Feel like a little kid again…. Feeling excited. Long way back from this surgery!’
Novak Djokovic looked unstoppable in Wimbledon opener
Ahead of his first-round clash with qualifier Vit Kopriva, there were fears over the fitness of this tennis legend.
After all, Djokovic had outlined his injury fears ahead of Wimbledon, having had surgery on a torn meniscus in his knee just last month.
And yet, he cruised past his opponent in straight sets, winning 6-1 6-2 6-2 on centre court.
Wearing a knee brace throughout, this marked a visual reminder of the physical phenomenon that he remains.
However, there were no such examples of struggle within his game, as he crushed Kopriva to set up a clash with Great Britain’s Jacob Fearnley, a wild card.
Naturally, as the tournament goes on his standard of opponent will improve, but for now, these matches mark important ones for Djokovic’s physical and mental forttitude, to prove to himself that he can compete at Wimbledon.
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