Nick Kyrgios excited to join Novak Djokovic for doubles at Brisbane International

·

Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic are set to debut their doubles partnership at the Brisbane International today, December 30, kicking off the Australian summer of tennis in style.

The pair, who have formed an unlikely friendship over the past 18 months, will take to Pat Rafter Arena for their first-ever doubles match, facing Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies in the round of 32.

Kyrgios, returning to tennis after a career-threatening wrist injury, humorously acknowledged the pairing, saying, “Everybody thinks it’s a pleasure to play with him [Djokovic]. It’s actually a pleasure to play with me, let’s be real.”

Despite their differing personalities, Kyrgios and Djokovic are the headline names of the ATP 250 singles draw, and their doubles debut is expected to draw a large crowd.

“I don’t know how it’s going to be – we might get absolutely snipped,” Kyrgios joked, adding that they might not win, given their lack of doubles experience.

Djokovic echoed a laid-back attitude, saying, “Now we have the first chance right away in the first week of the season, should be fun.”

@eurosport Novak Djokovic 🤝 Nick Kyrgios A HUGE link-up is coming to Brisbane! 🎾🇦🇺 #tennis #BrisbaneInternational ♬ original sound – Eurosport

While Kyrgios is focused on his singles return against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, Djokovic is aiming to build on his Olympic gold medal from Paris this year.

Both players are eager to return to top form after challenging seasons, with Djokovic admitting, “It’s been an interesting year… I’ve had more losses and ups and downs than in previous seasons,” but he remains hungry to make more history.

Off the court, Kyrgios has been outspoken about issues in tennis, particularly the handling of doping cases involving top-ranked players like Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek. Kyrgios criticised the inconsistency of the sport’s doping protocols, calling the situation “disgusting.”

Djokovic, while acknowledging the discomfort of Kyrgios’ comments, agreed with some of his points, especially regarding the lack of transparency in doping cases, stating, “We were kept in the dark for five months” regarding Sinner’s case.

As both players gear up for the new season, their partnership at the Brisbane International promises to be a highlight of the tournament, with fans excited to see how their contrasting personalities mesh on the court.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

Greece cancels Christmas events, brings back mask mandate

Christmas concerts and other events have been cancelled in Greece under new restrictions announced on Thursday.

Pierre Lykourezos steps in to help 91-year-old Sydney woman left without staircase

A Sydney great-grandmother has been given a heartwarming lifeline thanks to builder Pierre Lykourezos. Full story here.

Exxon Mobil to start gas exploration off Crete in coming days

Exxon Mobil will start conducting seismic surveys off southwestern Greece and the island of Crete in the coming days.