Splendid tennis action makes its way to world headlines as the National Bank Open starts with a bang. Formerly known as Rogers Cup, the Canadian tournament promises some enthralling outings. Courtesy of its star-studded lineup, power-packed performances with exceeding drama are guaranteed. Among the many notable appearances, Nick Kyrgios and his attempt at resurrection has surely been the highlight so far.
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After resting out for a brief period this season, Nick Kyrgios made a not-so-promising return to the court last week. The Australian began his campaign against America’s Mackenzie McDonald and failed to perform at the same level as him. As a result, the American knocked him out in straight sets, in shocking style.
However, putting the past behind, where it’s meant to be, Nick now moves onto the Rogers Cup, in hopes of a turnaround. He faces American giant Reilly Opelka in the first round of the tournament.
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“Stay Back? Okay” – Nick Kyrgios
Reilly looked to dominate the match head-on, winning the first game right away. However, Nick wasn’t too far behind either, as the set was tied at 3-3 halfway through. With not much separating the two, Nick turned to Sportscaster Ben Lewis for some much-needed advice, who didn’t fail the Australian.
Ben shouted, “Stay Back,” as Nick nodded his head, replying, “Stay back? Okay.”
Nick Kyrgios asking for serve advice before Reilly Opelka serves at 3-3. @BenLewisSN590 shouts out “stay back” to which the 🇦🇺 replies “Stay back? Ok” Then proceeds to win the first two points of the game and also gets the first break of the match.
Nice work coach 🙂#NBO21
— Mike McIntyre (@McIntyreTennis) August 10, 2021
Well, following the boss’s order, Nick stayed back, won the next two points, and achieved the all-important service break in the game. He gained the upper hand over Reilly and went on to win the set 6-4 in a thrilling fashion. However, Reilly wasn’t one to back down so easily. Naturally, it was game on in Toronto.
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Disappointment yet again
Packed with surprise defeats and unprecedented injuries, it’s been a tough season for Nick Kyrgios. However, as he began yet another campaign today, expectations from fans were the same as before. Sadly, once again they had to settle for disappointment as Nick failed to record a winning performance.
Nick Kyrgios bid goodbye to the 2021 Rogers Cup as Reilly Opelka came back from behind to beat the Australian, 6-4, 6-7, 4-6. Stunned, fans appreciated Nick’s relentless attack, which was noteworthy indeed, but not enough to see him through to the next round. Disgruntled, he walked off court facing his third defeat in a row, with another early exit, sending him back home.
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Read more: Taylor Fritz Encounters Heart Beat Complications During Loss at National Bank Open 2021 R1
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