The prospect of Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic becoming friends, much less doubles partners, seemed slim after fans witnessed their long-drawn feud. Nonetheless, both players put their differences aside for a blockbuster ‘double trouble’ on the opening day of the Brisbane International. And, it received commendation from the Aussie’s girlfriend.
Kyrgios marked his return to the tour after an 18-month-long injury hiatus. He overcame career-threatening injuries and showcased why he remains one of the most talented players. Days after announcing his comeback, the Aussie sensation made a surprise revelation as he confirmed a doubles dance with his 2022 Wimbledon final opponent. However, the ‘Bad Boy of Tennis’ hyped fans further after landing in Brisbane and made a bold claim ahead of their doubles debut.
“Everyone thinks it’s a pleasure playing with him, it’s actually a pleasure playing with me let’s be real.” Truth be told, Kyrgios was high-key right. He finessed his trademark powerful shot-making skills during the showdown as he assisted Djokovic to register a thrilling 6-4 6-7 (4-7) 10-8 win over Austria’s Alexander Erler and Germany’s Andreas Mies. Moreover, the Aussie’s girlfriend Costeen Hatzi couldn’t deny that the duo put on a stellar showcase in Brisbane. The lovebirds have been dating since December 2021 and their bond has only strengthened since then, so naturally, she’s all for her beau’s support.
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The Australian influencer posted a story on her official Instagram handle with a recording of the pair’s on-court adventure at the season-opening event and captioned it, “Let’s go.”
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nick Kyrgios (@k1ngkyrg1os)
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Both players are eying a triumphant finish in Brisbane, with Nole on a quest to end his ATP title drought. Talking about this partnership, Djokovic has no qualms about taking a backseat in it as he acknowledged Kyrgios’ stunning claims.
Novak Djokovic shows humility after acknowledging Brisbane’s main character Nick Kyrgios
Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic and his extraordinary skills need no introduction. Even at 37 years of age, Nole continues to excite fans. He concluded his dream of an Olympic gold in Paris, but his results on the Grand Slam stage remained underwhelming last year. But no matter how skillful the Serb remains, he can’t overshadow Nick Kyrgios while they are together on the court. And the same happened during their maiden outing on the tour.
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After winning the contest, the 24-time Major winner highlighted that he followed the Aussie’s lead throughout the match. Just when everyone thought Kyrgios would be the Serb’s sidekick in Brisbane, it turned out to be the exact opposite, as Djokovic himself acknowledged, “He (Kyrgios) said the other day it should be a pleasure to play with him. And it is! Whatever Nick was saying I was following.”
The duo will next take to the court on Tuesday, December 31 where they will clash against Croatian Nikola Mektic and Australian Michael Venus for a place in the third round. Meanwhile, the pair will also commence their respective singles campaign before partnering for their second-round thriller in Brisbane. Are you backing Djokovic and Kyrgios to win the doubles title in Brisbane?