Nick Kyrgios doesn’t want to be remembered as just a tennis player. He wants to build a legacy.
It was this belief that resulted in the birth of the NK Foundation. Set up by Kyrgios and his team with the goal of ‘increasing access to, and provide sport facilities to underprivileged & disadvantaged youths.’ The Masterplan doesn’t just concentrate on tennis, but also aims to include other sports such as basketball. Another sport that is close to Kyrgios’ heart.
“At the end of the day, if I am remembered for just being a tennis player I have done a pretty terrible job.” Kyrgios said during an interview with playersvoice.com.au.
The creation of the foundation was sparked by a trip made earlier this year. He visited a hospital in France to meet children undergoing treatment there. Reflecting upon his trip, Kyrgios believes it was the ‘final push’ to make him want to do something for the younger generation.
“I went to France earlier this year and visited a local hospital. Some of the kids in there weren’t going to make it out.” He said.
“That was the moment I decided I wanted to do something, to create the NK Foundation. It was the final push.”
Kyrgios is currently travelling to Argentina to play against Juan Martin del Potro in an exhibition tournament. Which will take place on Friday at the Estadio Luna Park. A multi-purpose arena located in Buenos Aires. In a Facebook post, he confirmed that $100,000 of the money he has earned from the event will be donated to his foundation.
The future
Whilst everything appears to be going to plan with the foundation, on the court it is another story. In the past the Australian has earned a reputation for his controversial antics. At a low-point, he was briefly suspended from the tour last year for unsportsmanlike behaviour displayed during the Shanghai Masters. On the other hand, few dispute Kyrgios’ talent on the tour. He currently has three ATP titles under his belt and has scored multiple wins over both Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.
“I don’t know how long I am going to play for yet.” He said about his future in tennis. “ I’m feeling pretty good in the training block at the moment. I’m feeling fit so, depending on how the Aussie summer goes, if I’m doing well, I may play a few more tournaments (in 2018).”
Ironically the foundation Kyrgios created may be the key to solving his at times feisty behaviour in the sport. In the past, he has spoken about wanting to be a role model and being motivated to raise the profile of the NK Foundation. A goal he aims to continue.
“I was lacking motivation numerous times the last couple of years. Obviously, when you got something to play for like this. Every little bit of money can go towards this foundation.” He explained.
Kyrgios is set to start his 2018 season at the Brisbane International.
