Tennis bad boy Nick Kyrgios has expressed his wish to make a mark in the ATP Malaysian Open starting next week, although admitting the pressure is always present.
Kyrgios has a Malaysian mother and coming into this tournament, he is clearly aware of the expectations that would be on his shoulders, based on his local roots.
“It is definitely a special tournament, for me and for my mum. I have a lot of relatives in Malaysia and I would hate to let them all down, so there is an added pressure in that as well,” said Kyrgios, as quoted by New Straits Times.
“I enjoyed my time in KL last time and felt really comfortable. This will be my second time here, so I’m already quite used to the conditions.”
“The courts (surface) are perfect, they are quite similar to the ones in Australia Open and I think it will suit my game a lot.”
The world no. 42’s debut in the tournament last year was short lived as he lost to Marinko Matosevic in the first round, but is pleased with his form ahead of this year’s competition.
“Obviously there are quite a few areas in my game which needs improvements but I think I had a pretty good year, with the US Open and other slams in between.”
“Hopefully I can carry my form into Asia,” he added.
Frenchman Gasquet will be joining Kyrgios in KL, with David Ferrer and Feliciano Lopez of Spain included in the draw.
WHAT DO WE THINK?
The pressure will always be there for Kyrgios, whether it’s Malaysia or Roland Garros. He’s developed a rather peculiar reputation, especially after his recent bust-up with Stan Wawrinka. When he first arrived on the circuit, he was tipped to be the next big thing. But he’s struggling to earn plaudits at the moment, and that is due in no small part to the off-court saga he’s been involved with. But winning his first ATP title will be a timely reminder that he’s still in the business for his sheer on-court ability as well. Will it be KL? He will certainly be hoping so.
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