At Australian Open next month, Jannik Sinner will definitely be willing to give his best ti defend his crown. But it won’t be easy. Among others, standing his way this time around will be his biggest rival, Nick Kyrgios. Having been after the Italian ever since he tested positive for doping, the Aussie cleared has made his intention clear. Beat Jannik Sinner. How will it be? Here’s what French ATP star, Nicolas Mahut has to say.

Nicolas Mahut gave a straightforward opinion on what could happen if Nick Kyrgios faces Jannik Sinner at the 2025 Australian Open. Mahut stated, “If he were to play Kyrgios, I think it’s more the pre-match climate that would be difficult to manage than the match itself for Sinner”. He further added, “Kyrgios has not played for too long. We can dream of a title for Kyrgios at the Australian Open, but we have to be realistic in terms of level. Even if the crowd is excited, if it is 6-3, 6-3, 6-3, well…”

The Australian, who has only played one match since 2023, has yet to prove he can compete with players coming off strong seasons. Kyrgios, however, remains confident. Interestingly, Jannik Sinner and Nick Krygios have faced each other once before at the 2022 Miami Open. While the Italian won the match, the match was filled with controversies and heated moments.

Recently, On the Nothing Major podcast, he expressed excitement about the potential matchup. He stated, “I feel like I’ve got a lot more. I’ve got something, you know. Let’s be honest. I just want to go out there, and I really want to play Sinner. Like I’m waiting for it, man.”

Kyrgios also shared his strategy, revealing he would rely heavily on the crowd to create an intense environment. “I would get every single person in the crowd to just like get on him,” he said. He added, “I would just turn into an absolute riot. I would lose all respect, would go out the window and would just do anything to win.” However, it is only time that will reveal what could happen if the two face out.

While Nick Kyrgios has been actively hitting out the Italian amidst the doping saga, Nicolas Mahut did not find it interesting and went ahead to slam the Aussie.

Nicolas Mahut slams Nick Kyrgios for his excessive remarks over Jannik Sinner

Nicolas Mahut has strongly criticized Nick Kyrgios for his remarks regarding Jannik Sinner’s doping controversy. While Mahut acknowledges Kyrgios’s right to voice his opinion, he believes the Australian has taken his criticism too far.

For months, Kyrgios has openly condemned how Sinner’s doping case has been handled. The 2022 Wimbledon finalist has repeatedly stated that Sinner, currently the world No. 1, should face a suspension. During an interview with Eurosport, Mahut addressed the situation, saying, “I disapprove of these outbursts. Kyrgios is entitled to his opinion regarding Jannik’s positive test—everyone has the freedom to think as they choose. However, it’s unnecessary to escalate things this way. Sinner has never disrespected anyone.”

Mahut believes Kyrgios’s provocations are unwarranted, especially since Sinner has maintained professionalism throughout all this. The five-time Grand Slam doubles champion added that such harsh criticism does not lift up the spirit of the game.

Mahut’s comments also shed light on the need for constructive dialogue rather than divisive rhetoric. While the tennis world awaits clarity on Sinner’s situation, it would be interesting how he kicks off his season. What are your thoughts on this? Do let us know in the comments below!