Nick Kyrgios has praised Taylor Fritz after he was knocked out of the Australian Open at the quarter-final stage to Novak Djokovic.
The Australian was speaking on Eurosport after a four-set win for the Serbian icon.
So, what has Kyrgios said about Fritz following a defeat for the American player? Let’s take a closer look…
Nick Kyrgios gives praise to Taylor Fritz after Australian Open exit
Well, it would appear that Kyrgios is extremely impressed – and a little bit surprised with the form shown by Fritz earlier today.
The American put on a spirited display but eventually lost 6-7, 6-4, 2-6, 3-6 to Djokovic who remains on course for an eleventh title in Melbourne.
Fritz had lost all eight of his previous meetings with Djokovic before his ninth straight defeat.
However, given that record, Kyrgios suggested he was impressed – and a little surprised – with Fritz given how he played today.
He said on Eurosport: “That was an incredible performance. Taylor has improved his game so much. You had an 8-0 head to head.”
Fritz can take heart from Australian Open
Unfortunately for everyone on the professional circuit, Djokovic is just showing no sign of slowing down.
He was an immovable object at one end of the court earlier today and whatever Fritz threw at him, he continued to return it back.
It will take a very brave man to bet against him lifting this title for an eleventh time this week but Fritz can take some heart.
At 26-years-old, he has bags of time on his side and it’s not a major concern just yet that he’s not reached the semi-final of a major.
Naturally, he will be hoping to get beyond the quarters of one at some point but there are still positives to take from this defeat.
As Kyrgios said, Fritz looks vastly improved and perhaps the American can be one to watch for the rest of the season.
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