Nick Kyrgios is one of tennis’ most outspoken individuals, and has never been afraid of engaging in wars of words with his fellow players and pundits.
Even Novak Djokovic was not safe from his provocative personality in the past, who was once a target before he became a friend.
Because of his penchant for promoting controversy, the Australian has developed into a polarising figure amongst the tennis community.
However, despite being someone often criticised in the media, Nick Kyrgios was keen to speak to reports back in 2023 and actually played down reports of a feud with his compatriot.
When Nick Kyrgios played down reports of a feud with Alex de Minaur
Ahead of the United Cup at the start of 2023, reports emerged that Kyrgios and Alex de Minaur, one of the more mild-mannered individuals on the ATP Tour, had fallen out.
The former’s late withdrawal from the competition had reportedly irked the 26-year-old, although those claims eventually turned out to be true.
Usually one to revel in controversy, Kyrgios was keen to dispel this particular rumour, claiming: “Me and Demon (De Minaur) have a very special relationship. I still remember him being the orange boy in the Davis Cup team and I was the one who would hit with him when the tie was finished.”
“Me and Demon have a great relationship. He came up to me yesterday and said, ‘I’m sorry for everything and I hope your body goes well’. I respect all these players, so it’s not a big deal when I read about me and Demon are feuding. He’s one of my close mates on tour and he always will be.”
Kyrgios even rushed to defend De Minaur earlier this year, arguing against ‘the worst take’ he had ever seen.
When is Nick Kyrgios meant to be back from injury?
Kyrgios’ polarising off-court antics have always merged well with his on-court play style, which is abrasive, disruptive and hugely entertaining.
His opponents never know what he will do next, possessing a bag of tricks that some top-ten-ranked players would envy.
However, ever since channelling that talent into reaching the 2022 Wimbledon final, injuries have ravaged a career that threatened to take off.
He now sits 666th in the world rankings, with wrist and knee injuries the cause of such a drop.
In 2025, he has played just four ATP-level matches, with his last coming in March.
Fortunately, after what Kyrgios described as a ‘miracle’ injury boost, the 29-year-old now seems set to return to action next month.
Avoid saying the same tennis player as me quiz
Kyrgios’ ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match with Aryna Sabalenka is due to take place in late December, before hopefully making his return to the tour at the Australian Open.
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