Nick Kyrgios recognized that fitness is a key factor in being successful in a major Grand Slam tournament and that’s why he didn’t want to risk aggravating his injury at the United Cup.
Just before the start of the United Cup, Kyrgios announced his withdrawal from the tournament due to an ankle injury. Kyrgios’ late retirement caused anger and it was obvious that Australia’s United Cup squad – particularly co-captains Sam Stosur and Lleyton Hewitt – weren’t exactly thrilled with the 27-year-old’s decision.
“Anyone who plays professionally knows this perfectly well. Anyone outside that area wouldn’t have much understanding. Going deep into a tournament or not, winning a match at Grand Slam level is no easy task.
People underestimate the pressure and nerves of being a part of one of the biggest tournaments of the year. Add in an injury and the knowledge that you haven’t given yourself the best chance only increases the pressure you feel.
So it’s important to feel good physically,” Kyrgios told the Sydney Morning Herald.
Kyrgios is defended by the United Cup tournament director
Kyrgios’ late retirement sparked criticism from the Australian media as he was expected to lead the Australian team to the United Cup.
But when asked about Kyrgios’ retirement, United Cup tournament director Stephen Farrow suggested the 27-year-old had gone out of his way to play and had the right intentions. “He delayed until the last possible minute to confirm whether or not he would be able to compete.
These things happen in tennis, especially when there are two weeks before a Grand Slam. This is now a big event in itself. There’s $15 million in prize money and 500 leaderboard points. But as a player you have to keep an eye out for Grand Slam tournaments.
The fact that he trained here proves that he intended to play. Unfortunately, that’s not possible,” Farrow said. The Australian Open starts on January 16, and Kyrgios has more than two weeks to prepare for the first Grand Slam tournament of the season.
