Nick Kyrgios drops a controversial statement on potentially considering retirement after the US Open
One of the most divisive figures in Tennis and fact, in contemporary sports, Nick Kyrgios has dropped another bombshell. Staying true to his nature, where press conferences or post-match interviews are never boring, Kyrgios has now quipped that he may consider retirement after the US Open.
An enigma of rich proportions whose bundles of talent and exuberance are often weighed down by his ego, poor attitude, and unsportsmanlike behavior, he has been playing some rich tennis in recent months.
The Australian thumped world number one and defending US Open champion Daniil Medvedev 7-6(11) 3-6 6-3 6-2 on Sunday to reach the quarter-finals. Kyrgios’ victory and Medvedev’s exit ensure that there will be a new top-ranked player by the time the tournament at Flushing Meadows comes to a close.
Before this, the Australian had never managed to progress beyond the third round of the US Open.
“I’m just glad I’m finally able to show New York my talent,” he said during the court interview after his win over Medvedev. “I haven’t had too many great trips here.”
In the press conference, however, he stirred the plot even further and went on to add that he might consider retiring from the sport if he does end up winning the US Open title.
“Three more matches potentially …then we never have to play tennis again,” he said.
This brings us all back to the point of how Kyrgios’ polarising nature continues to divide opinions in the world of tennis every single day. On some days, he can prove to be an insufferable and petulant crybaby whose interactions with his peers, fans, or even the line umpires can end up being downright disgusting.
The worst thing about it all is that he often looks indifferent and with a sense that he doesn’t care. It goes without saying that for any sportsman, that is not a good look.
In recent months, however, Kyrgios’ racquet has garnered more attention than his ill-advised rants or attention-seeking behavior off the court.
He reached his first Grand Slam final at the All England Club in July before losing to serial winner Novak Djokovic. The Australian also won his first ATP title in three years at Washington in August. That win was followed by a startling and surprising victory over world number one Daniil Medvedev.
Therefore, it’s fair to understand why Kyrgios thinks he might have had his fill of the sport. On Tuesday, however, he will meet No 27 seed Karen Khachanov for a spot in the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows.