‘Entertainer’ Nick Kyrgios reaching ‘superstar’ status like Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal, says Mats Wilander
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Updated 23/01/2022 at 11:27 GMT
Mats Wilander thinks Nick Kyrgios is fast becoming one of tennis' great entertainers like Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal. Kyrgios hasn't always endeared himself to the public, but his authentic displays at the Australian Open have seen him grow his appeal. Stream the 2022 Australian Open live and on demand on discovery+.
'Kyrgios is so good for the game, he delivers like all entertainers' - Wilander
Mats Wilander reckons Nick Kyrgios is becoming a tennis superstar - and worthy of being mentioned in the same breath as Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal.
Kyrgios has been at his eccentric best during the Australian Open but has also delivered success on the court - taking a set off tournament favourite Daniil Medvedev in the second round of the men's singles, and now after beating Gonzalo Escobar and Ariel Behar on Sunday alongside partner Thanasi Kokkinakis.
Wilander said: "It [Kyrgios's success] is fantastic for the tournament.
"Superstars are made of people going [to matches] to get their expectations fulfilled.
"When you go and see Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal you get your expectations fulfilled whether they win or not.
"Nick Kyrgios - I have to say - when he's on the big stage we have expectations of him. And he fulfils them whether he wins or loses.
"He delivers just like all entertainers do.
"He's so good for the game, he really is.
"I just wish that when he's not keen to play tennis that he just doesn't show up.
"But hopefully those days are over and he's just enjoying it. It seems like he's enjoying it more than normal."
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Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis discuss tactics
Image credit: Getty Images
Wilander's comments were echoed by former British No. 1 Johanna Konta.
"He loves playing at home and you can see the dynamic between the two [Kyrgios and Kokkinakis]," Konta said.
"How fun is it as a tennis fan, as an Australian tennis fan, to come out to Melbourne and see these two guys?
"Obviously Thanasi did so well before the Australian Open, it's a shame he didn't get further at Melbourne, however it's great to see them still enjoying themselves."
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