Nick Kyrgios reveals in an interview that he doesn’t want to be like Roger Federer. “I’m more than just a tennis player,” says the 26-year-old.
the essentials in brief
- Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis recently won the Australian Open.
- In an interview with “ABC News” they talk about their style of play.
- Kyrgios also draws a comparison to the Swiss Roger Federer.
A little over a week has passed since Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis’ double triumph at the Australian Open. However, the journey of the two had begun years before. The two met at a junior tournament in Canberra.
“I saw a big, chubby kid just nailing the ball,” Kokkinakis said in an interview with ABC News. “I saw the big man play, saw his father dressed in Jordan clothes. I thought I’d probably be friends with this guy.”
Nick Kyrgios: «My goal is to attract new fans to the sport»
The two Australians have had to take strong criticism for their style of play. However, Kyrgios’ goal is to continue to advance the sport. “My goal as a tennis player is now to win new fans for the sport,” says the 26-year-old.
“I think you can’t please everyone and that’s the most important thing we’ve learned. We don’t want to encourage viewers to chant vulgar stuff. We just want a good atmosphere,” Kokkinakis told ABC News.
Kyrgios: “I don’t want to be like Roger Federer.”
“If you look at some athletes around the world, like Neymar or Russell Westbrook. You are more than just an athlete. I have my own foundation and I help children. I’m a platform – I’m more than just a tennis player, »says Nick Kyrgios.
The Australian continues: “I don’t care if I win a Grand Slam tournament one day. I don’t want to be like Roger Federer. I don’t care how I’m perceived because deep down I know I’m a caring person. I am always myself.”
More than just a tennis player
At the end of the interview, Kyrgios and Kokkinakis are asked how they would like to be remembered. Kyrgios gives an unforgettable answer.
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“I want to be remembered for more than just someone who played tennis. I want to be remembered as an icon. As someone who just went out there and did it their own way.”
