The US Open first-round match between Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis, which he won in straight sets to advance at Flushing Meadows, was described by Kyrgios as “the most uncomfortable match of his career.” Late on Monday night, the doubles partners and close friends were forced to square off for the first time.
At the Australian Open earlier this year, Kyrgios and Kokkinakis shot to doubles fame by winning the competition. The former was viewed as a strong favorite against the world no. 70 when they first met as individual competitors.
Although Kyrgios entered the US Open as the 23rd seed despite making it all the way to the Wimbledon final last month, many anticipate him to have another barnstorming performance. His campaign got off to a quick start as he easily defeated Kokkinakis with a score of 6-3 6-4 7-6, but he later admitted that the mental struggle was anything but simple.
In an effort to continue his US Open run, Kyrgios will take on Benjamin Bonzi. Given that the Frenchman has never made it past the second round of a Grand Slam, the Australian may well think he has a good chance.
While Kyrgios’ supporters will hope he can repeat the success he had at Wimbledon, the 27-year-old Australian says he “can’t wait for the US Open to be over” so he can go back to his country.
