Over the past few years, Nick Kyrgios has never hidden that he is a big fan of Roger Federer. The Australian beat the Swiss in their first match in Madrid in 2015, demonstrating his full potential ahead of the 20-time Slam champion.
The former World number 1 would have won the next six games against Nick. In a fascinating showcase of attacking tennis, Federer and Kyrgios produced the 2017 ATP Match of the Year in Miami. Federer saved set points and Kyrgios saved match points, but it was the Swiss who ultimately claimed his place in the final with a 7-6(9), 6-7(9), 7-6(5) triumph after three hours and 11 minutes.
At the Australian Open 2020, during his mixed doubles match, Kyrgios was more interested to know about Federer’s quarterfinal match. But in an interview, Kyrgios was asked if Federer was his childhood idol, he said: “He’s wasn’t my childhood idol.
Out of the tennis players, my idols were probably Gael Monfils and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, but Roger, he’s a great role model”. “My inspiration for idols, I had one growing up, Roger. He is everyone’s art of inspiration while growing up.
With one person with whom I can model my game is Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. I loved the way he played, he loved to entertain. I emulate my game around him, big serves and forehands. And our game styles are very similar. I played him once at the Australian Open and it was a pretty special feeling.
I beat him, but I was still looking at someone that I looked up to. Playing Jo, I was obviously very nervous. He was a guy I looked up to as a kid. Still do,” Kyrgios said. “When I saw him out here I was so nervous. No joke. People think I’m cool, but I wanted him to think I was the coolest person ever” – Nick Kyrgios added.
