“Rafa Has Chopped Me There Once”: Nick Kyrgios Reveals his Favorite Clay-Court Tournament

Nick Kyrgios continues to be one of the most dynamic personalities in world tennis, both on and off the court. Being his unapologetic self, the Australian star grabs headlines everywhere he goes. Not only his shots on the court, but his antics away from the sport also make him one to look out for. Regardless of what he feels, he’s vocal about his experience and makes himself heard. Hence, the 26-year-old is often dubbed an entertainer along with being a player.

Even as all eyes turned to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Nick Kyrgios remained at the heart of the action. Away from Japan, he took to his Twitter to create a buzz, with one too many cheeky replies. Bringing ease to anxious fans who missed him at the Summer Games, Nick appeared on-screen to answer some of their questions. However, amongst fan queries, was a popular rival who’s been going at it with the Australian for a while now but had a question himself too.

Read more: “ZERO FANS. ZERO CROWDS. ZERO HYPE”: Nick Kyrgios Lashes Out Over Increasing Clay Tournaments with Hysterical Tweet 

“Rafa has also chopped me there”- Nick Kyrgios

In a newly emerged video, Nick took some time out to answer a few questions from fans and followers. However, a certain Casper Ruud was among the many fans, who asked Nick to name his favorite clay-court tournaments. Despite the recent dispute between the two, to everyone’s surprise, Nick answered Casper with utmost sincerity and maturity.

He said, “My favorite clay court tournament I think would have to be… uff.. Houston would be up there, I think one I love playing in America, that event, I’ve actually had some good memories there, I’ve had a lot of fun. Umm and Madrid, I’ve made quarters there once, had some good wins. Rafa has also chopped me there once too, so maybe not. But yeah, probably Madrid.” 

Ever since their infamous outing in the Italian Open two years ago, Rudd and Kyrgios have been at each other’s back. Taking their on-court rivalry to Twitter, the two have often exchanged words online.

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Title defending campaign at the Citi Open

Following his second-round exit from ATP Atlanta, Nick Kyrgios will soon begin his Citi Open campaign. Fans will expect the defending champion to play his absolute best as he puts on a show yet again. Notably, ahead of his appearance, Nick expressed his thoughts on his gameplay.

He said, “I feel as if I’m not playing for myself anymore, I feel like I’m kind of playing for a lot of people who can relate to me… The first time I came on-site [Sunday], everyone was kind of embracing me. Felt like I was playing almost in Australia. I feel completely comfortable here.”

Living comfortably right now, Nick’s life can, however, get difficult on the court. As he gears up to entertain his beloved fans once more, could he bag another accolade; notably, one he’s already triumphed over before?