Félix Auger-Aliassime is a player appreciated and respected by other players on the ATP circuit. Nick Kyrgios is part of this group. He did not hesitate to throw flowers in the direction of the ninth player in the world.
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After a question from a fellow Montrealer, the Australian’s response was long and heartfelt.
“He’s an excellent player,” said Kyrgios of the Quebecer. It is important for our sport.
“When you look at him, he’s a very marketable person. He has a nice personality. The way he plays tennis is very exciting.”
A great confidence
Kyrgios also noticed the 22-year-old’s strength of character.
“He is a young man who is extremely confident in himself, added the Australian. There are no limits for someone like him.
“He works very hard. We participated in the Laver Cup together. On a daily basis, I watched his professionalism and the way he analyzed the matches. He loves tennis. He is a student of our sport.
“He loves to analyze other players. If he doesn’t do stupid things like me at his age, he can achieve more things than me. He could win several Grand Slams. He’s an excellent player.”
Looking for a victory
Kyrgios has yet to beat Auger-Aliassime since the start of his career (0-2).
It’s a bit surprising. The Australian still has advantageous records against players like Daniil Medvedev and Novak Djokovic.
“During one of those games, I got injured,” Kyrgios said. He beat me once. I think he’s one of those special players who can do amazing things on and off the pitch.
“It is bigger than tennis. I believe he will have a greater impact than just in the world of tennis.”