Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has opened up about his love-hate relationship with commentating on Novak Djokovic’s matches. In a candid discussion on *The Sit-Down*, an Australian Open talk show, Kyrgios revealed the unique challenges of analyzing the games of one of tennis’ all-time greats. The outspoken Australian, who has stepped into a commentator role during his injury hiatus, admitted that Djokovic’s style of play can be both captivating and maddening, especially in the early rounds of Grand Slams.
### **A Rollercoaster Commentary Experience**
Kyrgios didn’t hold back when describing why Djokovic frustrates him as a commentator. “I’ve done a lot of Novak matches, and he frustrates the hell out of me,” Kyrgios admitted with a laugh. “I hate doing his matches early on in Slams. He just plays around with his food for like four hours.”
The former Wimbledon finalist explained how Djokovic’s tendency to dominate early-round opponents in drawn-out matches makes for a challenging experience in the commentator’s box. Kyrgios joked about the Serb’s penchant for making even straightforward victories feel unnecessarily prolonged.
“He’ll be up two sets to love, then lose the third, start complaining, and go to his box,” Kyrgios said. “Then there will be a 7-6 in the fourth, and I’m like, ‘Dude, do you just enjoy keeping me here?’ It’s like he knows I’m in there, and then he starts losing focus.”
Kyrgios’ lighthearted frustration underscores Djokovic’s reputation for being a marathon man on the court, often toying with opponents before sealing the deal.
### **The Evolution of Their Relationship**
Kyrgios and Djokovic have had one of the most fascinating dynamics in professional tennis, marked by both rivalry and mutual respect. Early in their careers, the two clashed publicly, with Kyrgios famously calling Djokovic a “tool” in 2021 and the Serb responding that he had no respect for Kyrgios off the court.
However, their relationship shifted dramatically in 2022, when Kyrgios defended Djokovic during the controversy surrounding his deportation from Australia over COVID-19 vaccination rules. That moment of solidarity seemed to thaw the icy relations between the two, culminating in a competitive but friendly Wimbledon final later that year, which Djokovic won in four sets.
“Since then, we’ve had a good relationship,” Kyrgios said. “I think we both respect each other a lot more now.”
### **Admiration for Alcaraz’s Excitement Factor**
While Djokovic’s precision and persistence may sometimes test Kyrgios’ patience, the Australian had nothing but praise for another rising star in the tennis world: Carlos Alcaraz.
“I’ve done a lot of Alcaraz matches, and I think he’s probably one of my favorites to watch,” Kyrgios shared. “He’s so exciting and always has something up his sleeve. I think this tennis world hasn’t seen someone like him before. He’s going to keep evolving.”
Kyrgios’ admiration for Alcaraz reflects the growing consensus that the young Spaniard represents the future of tennis. With his explosive athleticism, creativity, and fearless approach, Alcaraz has quickly become a fan favorite and a formidable competitor on tour.
### **Kyrgios’ Journey Back to Tennis**
While Kyrgios has enjoyed his stint as a commentator, his true passion remains competing on the court. After a long hiatus due to injury, the 29-year-old is set to make his much-anticipated comeback at the Brisbane International in January 2025, just ahead of the Australian Open.
Kyrgios’ last competitive match was in June 2023 at the Stuttgart Open, where he suffered a loss in his return from knee surgery. A subsequent wrist injury further delayed his plans, limiting him to just one match since October 2022.
Despite the setbacks, Kyrgios remains optimistic about his return, eager to rediscover the form that saw him reach the Wimbledon final in 2022 and claim seven ATP titles over his career.
### **A Legacy of Entertainment and Controversy**
Kyrgios has always been a polarizing figure in the tennis world, celebrated for his flair and criticized for his unpredictability. His candid remarks about Djokovic and Alcaraz are a reminder of his unfiltered personality, which has endeared him to fans and kept him in the spotlight even during his time away from the court.
As he prepares to rejoin the tour, Kyrgios brings with him a renewed perspective gained from his time as an analyst. His unique insights, born from both his playing career and commentary experience, add depth to his understanding of the game.
### **The Broader Impact of Kyrgios and Djokovic**
Kyrgios’ commentary on Djokovic also highlights the broader impact of the Serb’s dominance on the sport. Djokovic’s meticulous, calculated approach has set the standard for consistency and endurance, while Kyrgios embodies the other end of the spectrum: a fiery, instinct-driven style that thrives on spontaneity.
Together, they represent the diverse styles and personalities that make tennis compelling. As Kyrgios returns to the ATP Tour and Djokovic continues to compete at the highest level, fans can look forward to seeing these contrasting figures shape the sport in their own ways.
### **Looking Ahead**
With his return to professional tennis on the horizon, Kyrgios hopes to channel his frustrations and inspirations into his game. Whether it’s Djokovic’s calculated mastery or Alcaraz’s thrilling innovation, Kyrgios has a wealth of insights to draw upon as he seeks to add new chapters to his own career.
For now, the Australian remains one of the sport’s most intriguing figures—both on and off the court—and his candid take on Djokovic’s matches only adds to the colorful narrative of modern tennis. Fans will be watching closely to see how Kyrgios balances his trademark swagger with his drive to compete at the top level once again.