American Davis Cup captain Jim Courier has made a bold prediction for Nick Kyrgios after the 21-year-old scored the decisive win to knock team USA out of the Davis Cup.
Kyrgios, who also defeated John Isner on the opening day of the tie, held his nerve to edge out Sam Querrey 7-6(4), 6-3, 6-4. The win gave Australia an unassailable lead over America and secured their place in the semifinals of the tournament.
“It was good to have that support (at the Brisbane tie). They really embraced me this time. I got two big wins and everyone likes to win.’’ Kyrgios said following his win.
The double achievement of the world No.16 has won him admiration from Courier. Reflecting on Kyrgios’ recent surge on the tour, the four-time grand slam champion believes he has the ability to reach the top-five before the end of the year.
“It’s all in his hands,” Courier said.
“You see when he’s engaged and focused and concentrating and resilient – down a break in three different sets and found a way to win – that’s a player who can and should be top five in the world by the end of the year, if he carries that through and if he’s lucky with good health.
“When you see players that have so much skill and charisma start to put it together, it’s exciting for everyone involved in tennis.”
Since suffering a bitter loss at the Australian Open, the sometimes controversial player has blossomed on the tour. Within the first quarter of 2017, he has scored back-to-back wins over Novak Djokovic, reached the last eight in Indian Wells and the semifinals in Miami. His thrilling three sets loss against Roger Federer in Miami was hailed as one of the standout matches of the year so far.
Courier is not alone in piling on the praise. Recently former grand slam doubles champions John Fitzpatrick and Todd Woodbridge said Kyrgios has ‘come of age’. Fitzpatrick called his Friday win over Isner ‘something special.’
The surge in Kyrgios’ form comes after what has been a troublesome start to the season. A surprise loss to Andreas Seppi in Melbourne almost resulted in him taking a break from the sport. The hiatus was avoided after a stint in the Davis Cup, which reignited Kyrgios’ passion for the sport.
“I’ve become a bit more of a professional and it’s showing,’’ he said.
“It’s a relief to actually deliver. The last two months have taken a lot out of me.
“I’m in a happier place, I’m going out and playing the game as it’s meant to be played. I’m not going back to the hotel hating the game.’’
As the excitement mounts, the focus of the rising star switches to the European clay. Kyrgios’ first tournament on the surface this season will be at the Monte Carlo Masters, which will get underway on April 17th.
