Tennis – ATP Washington: Nick Kyrgios savors his redemption: “I know that I inspire millions of people”

Wimbledon wasn’t just a flash in the pan

Confirmation of the return to form of the tattooed “bad boy” took shape during a successful fortnight on the courts of Wimbledon. Kyrgios obviously took advantage of Rafael Nadal’s package in the semis to secure a first Grand Slam final, but the Australian’s tournament was consistent, a challenge for the eruptive slinger. Long designated as a potential winner of one of the four tricks, Kyrgios was able to measure the gap that separated him from victory, blown with authority by Novak Djokovic in four sets (4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7 -6).

Back on the singles courts after his amazing fortnight in London, the big makis fan has kept an ogre appetite, not conceding any breaks to Washighton, even if he had to dismiss a few match points in the quarters against Frances Tiafoe. Ruthless Sunday against Nishioka, Kyrgios finally seems launched towards a constant and linear progression.

Now 37th in the ATP rankings, the Australian hotly insisted on his redemption after so many dark years: “I’m very emotive, he confides. When I think back to last year, it’s just an incredible transformation. I experienced such difficult times, and to finally be able to turn the page… I demonstrated a great strength of perseverance to get out of it and continue to perform.”

Happiness never comes alone, as Kyrgios became the first player in Citi Open history to join the singles and doubles titles in the same edition. He indeed triumphed alongside Jack Sock, dominating the pair Ivan Dodig-Austin Krajicek (7-5, 6-4).

At the release of his second success of the day, the Australian responded to the recurring criticism against him: “I don’t care what people say about my tennis, that it would be disrespectful, etc, he asserted. I know that deep down I really try to do it my way. I know I inspire millions, and I play just for them. ” With peace of mind and inflated with confidence, Kyrgios can already clear up a horizon long covered in fog. Next stop, the Masters 1000 in Montreal, where a certain Daniil Medvedev – winner of the Los Cabos tournament on Sunday – could stand on his way from the second round.