Nick Kyrgios has fired back at French doubles legend Nicolas Mahut, who recently criticized the Australian for his outspoken comments about world No. 1 Jannik Sinner. Mahut accused Kyrgios of having “let himself go” following his two-year absence from competitive tennis due to injuries. Kyrgios, however, didn’t hold back in his reply, taking aim at Mahut’s career in singles and highlighting the importance of belief in tennis.
“He was an amazing doubles player, a Grand Slam champion, no doubt, but he didn’t have the singles career I’ve had. That’s probably why he has his opinion,” Kyrgios said, addressing the remarks. “On the singles court, he never had the belief I have, so that opinion means nothing to me. I’ve achieved way more things playing singles than Mahut could have in his entire career.”
Mahut had previously suggested that Kyrgios stood no chance against Sinner, especially coming off a long injury layoff. The former doubles No. 1 believed that Kyrgios’ comments showed a lack of respect, adding that Sinner, the reigning world No. 1, had never disrespected anyone on or off the court.
Kyrgios, known for his unfiltered opinions, countered Mahut’s criticism by pointing to the mentality that set Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic apart from the rest. “That belief is what separates players. Federer, Nadal, Djokovic—they were the greatest because people were defeated before they even stepped on the court with them. I don’t want to be that player. I’ll always back my ability and my belief,” he said.
The Australian also reflected on his storied career, reminding critics of his victories over each member of the Big Three. Despite being unranked due to his extended absence, Kyrgios retains a protected ranking of No. 21 and is set to return to ATP competition this month.
Kyrgios recently participated in the World Tennis League exhibition in Abu Dhabi, where he played just one singles set, losing 6-4 to Andrey Rublev. However, he remains optimistic about his comeback, which begins at the Brisbane International before the Australian Open.
Nick Kyrgios in 2024
Currently the world no.470, the Australian played his last match on the 13th of June 2023 when he was defeated by world no.407 Yibing Wu 7-5 6-3 in the 1st round in Stuttgart (draw).
Until now, during this year Nick has a composed 0-1 match record.
He is also scheduled to play in Brisbane (Brisbane International) on the 1st of January and () on the 13th of January.
Nick Kyrgios |
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