Tennis Now Canada

Quick bytes from Canadian Tennis

Nick Kyrgios: “I Want a Graceful Exit, Not Like Nadal or Murray”

After over a year away from competitive tennis, Nick Kyrgios is gearing up for a comeback while reflecting on the careers of fellow stars Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. The Australian tennis sensation has expressed a strong desire to retire with more grace than his counterparts, both of whom have faced difficult exits from the sport due to injuries.

Murray officially retired this summer after struggling with a persistent hip injury that required multiple surgeries. He had not progressed past the third round of a Grand Slam since 2019. Meanwhile, Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, is set to retire following the Davis Cup in November, citing ongoing physical challenges, including extensive treatment for abdominal and hip issues. In a heartfelt video announcing his retirement, Nadal discussed the pain and difficulties that ultimately influenced his decision.

Kyrgios, who last played at the Stuttgart Open in 2023, remarked on the emotional toll these retirements have taken on both legends. “I don’t want to be crawling to the finish line,” he said during an appearance on The Louis Theroux podcast. He emphasized his admiration for Murray and Nadal, acknowledging their incredible achievements in tennis but wishing for a more dignified exit when his time comes.

The 29-year-old has been training rigorously with plans to return for the 2025 Australian Open. As he prepares to re-enter the competitive scene, Kyrgios is keen to do so on his own terms. “The surgeries, the pain, it’s just not worth it,” he explained, highlighting his intent to leave the sport in a more graceful manner. With his eyes set on a fresh start, fans are eager to see how Kyrgios will navigate his next chapter.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *