Australian No.2 Nick Kyrgios has vowed to be on his best behaviour during the inaugural ATP Cup which will get underway on Friday.
The 24-year-old is in Brisbane training ahead of his country’s group matches of the brand new team event. Which has to offer both prize money and ranking points. Kyrgios has only been able to play three singles matches (excluding the Laver Cup) since the US Open due to injury. A collarbone injury forced him to withdraw during the Davis Cup. Despite the setbacks, Kyrgios has insisted that he is raring to go for the new season. Hoping that his physical problems will remain a thing of the past.
“I have had no injuries of yet this year,” the world No.30 said during a press conference on New Year’s Day.
“I have had one session; the body held up well.”
Over the coming weeks the controversy-stricken player will be under close scrutiny on the tour. Kyrgios is currently serving a suspended ban for ‘aggravated behaviour.’ Should he commit any more violations within the 16-week time-frame, he faces being suspended from the sport.
Although it seems the current situation isn’t changing Kyrgios in anyway, who said he is feeling good after having a ‘couple of frosties (beers)’ on New Year’s Eve.
“It is New Year’s today. I am feeling all right. I feel refreshed.” He stated.
In the group stages of the ATP Cup, Kyrgios could potentially take on Germany’s Alexander Zverev in one of their group ties. Like the Australian, Zverev is yet to progress beyond the quarter-final stage of a grand slam tournament. Although he seemingly made a jibe towards Kyrgios on Wednesday when talking about his teammate Alex de Minaur.
“I know what to expect. I’ve played Alex. He’s is more of a professional that is going on a day-to-day basis. He tries to give his best all the time.” Said Zverev.
Despite the criticisms, Kyrgios is renowned for producing some of his best tennis in team competitions. Something he is hoping to emulate once again. He will be playing under the guidance of captain Lleyton Hewitt, who is also the head of the Australian Davis Cup team.
“I love being around the boys. I love the team environment,” he said.
“I do what I can to get the best out of these boys and I know I have their support –I just go out and bring good energy.
“And us Aussies we travel throughout the year. I was away for six and a half months (in 2019) so to be able to play in front of our home fans is awesome.”
Australia will play Germany on the opening day of the ATP Cup this Friday.
