Australian star Nick Kyrgios is one of the most underrated tennis players, but his on-court tantrums have put a permanent shadow over his talent. Recently, he celebrated his 26th birthday by reminiscing about an accomplishment that justified his potential.
Although the Aussie maverick has achieved only six ATP singles titles, he has achieved something deemed impossible in tennis. Moreover, it is an accolade only his compatriot Lleyton Hewitt has matched.
Incredibly, Nick Kyrgios defeated the big three of tennis – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic – in the first attempt. Moreover, he has a clean 2-0 record against the Serbian World No. 1 even today.
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Nick Kyrgios’ first wins over Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic
To wish Nick Kyrgios on his birthday, the Tennis TV official Twitter handle tweeted about his first wins over the big three. Immediately, the Aussie star responded to this as those wins are close to his heart.
In 2014, Kyrgios upset Rafael Nadal on Wimbledon grass 7-6 (5), 5-7, 7-6 (5), 6-3 as a 19-year-old. The match was the stepping stone for the Australian on the men’s circuit.
Following that, the current World No. 56 defeated King Roger Federer 6-7(2), 7-6(5), 7-6(12) in the Madrid Open 2015. Arguably, it is one of the toughest matches the Swiss maestro has ever played.
Kyrgios then completed the biggest achievement of his career, overcoming Novak Djokovic at the Mexican Open 2017. He won against the Serbian in straight sets 7-6, 7-5.
Undoubtedly, the tweet from Tennis TV must have brought him back to his glorious days. With a heart emoji, Nick congratulated his younger self, and replied, “Young kygs.”
Young kygs ❤️ https://t.co/nbnkTIcHgr
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) April 29, 2021
Is Kyrgios playing in the clay-court season?
The Aussie could not win against Andy Murray in the first attempt and missed out on improving his record from The Big 3 to the Big 4. However, after losing five straight matches, Kyrgios got his revenge on Andy’s home turf in the Queen’s Club Championships 2018. The final score was 2-6, 7-6 (4), 7-5.
Unfortunately, Kyrgios has denied his participation in all clay surface tournaments. He is waiting to play on his preferred grass surface, but fans would love to see him compete at Roland Garros.
The Aussie has confirmed his participation in the Mallorcan Championships this year, which is a grass-court tournament. He will then move on to chase the Wimbledon Championships 2021 title.
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Do you think Kyrgios will return to his peak this year?
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Also Read: How Madrid Open Clay Court Is Different Than French Open Surface