Australian Open 2018: Rod Laver names Nick Kyrgios as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s successor
What's the story?
Tennis legend Rod Laver claims that 22-year-old Nick Kyrgios could be the next big thing for the tennis fraternity to look out for and could even turn out to be the 'world's greatest player' in the near future.
The 79-year-old former star, who was present at Melbourne Park to witness Roger Federer create history with his 20th Grand Slam win, showered a lot of praise on the burly Australian and said that Krygios was "ready to do something," investing his belief on the youngster.
In case you didn't know
Seeded No.17 in the world rankings, the big-serving Kyrgios made it to the fourth round of the 2018 Australian Open, having gone past big names including that of Joe-Wilfried Tsonga in the Round of 32 before he was ousted by Grigor Dimitrov in the Round of 16.
The heart of the matter
Kyrgios, who has four ATP titles to his name and is the highest-ranked Australian player, has impressed Laver so much that the veteran named him as Federer and Nadal's successor once the big two decide to call time on their career.
The 79-year-old, who has 11 Grand Slam titles to his credit, was excited by the prospect of Kyrgios' rise in the near future and was happy to believe that the Australian's mental behaviour wore a new outlook altogether following his victory in the Brisbane Open.
"I just believe that he's ready to sort of do something. Just the way he's playing, he's just of playing and not letting outside interests worry him," Laver told Fairfax Media while also adding, " Nick, I think, is ready to get involved. Beating (Jo-Wilfried) Tsonga in Melbourne here is a great start".
The fact that Krygios has gone on defeat the top-flight players such as Federer, Nadal and Djokovic added more angle to Laver's praise on his fellow countryman. "I think, you know, Nick Kyrgios could be the best player in the world," Laver said.
What's next?
Kyrgios will now aim to improve his performance and put the exit from the Australian Open behind as he prepares for the Davis Cup and the Roland Garros later this year.
Author's take
The big-serving Australian has stamped his authority with his style of play that has caught the attention of many fans and pundits alike. Given his recent Brisbane Open title victory, the win will hold him in good stead for making a move up the ranks with some consistent displays.