Nick Kyrgios has claimed tennis’ Netflix series ‘Break Point’ is the “last hope” for the sport.
The new show documents a game-changing year with unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to a select group of the world’s best players throughout the 2022 season on the ATP Tour and WTA Tours. The ground-breaking series launched on the streaming platform today and one of the players set to feature is the controversial Australian.
Created by those responsible for the successful F1 Drive to Survive Netflix series, tennis chiefs will be hoping their version of the series can garner the same level of popularity and fanfare. Speaking about the docuseries ahead of this year's Australian Open, Kyrgios explained: "It wasn't only for me. I think it's in desperate need for the tennis world to get put on the map globally again.
“Obviously when Novak and (Rafael) Nadal go as well as Roger (Federer). This Netflix (show) is kind of the last hope that tennis is going to be interesting globally on the map for a long, long time. We've got a lot of young personalities. I think the first episode is pretty exciting and I think it will keep people interested for sure."
Kyrgios ended 2022 having enjoyed his most successful season, making his first Grand Slam final at Wimbledon in July where he lost to Novak Djokovic. During ‘Break Point’ the big server opened up on his mental health and at one point discussed his drinking habits with manager Daniel Horsfall.
"I just had to be kinder to myself, for my mental health. I could never be a player that played all year round. I couldn't do that," he says. After reaching his first Grand Slam final and winning the Australian men’s doubles title last year, the world number 22 has more belief that he has what it takes to win a singles major.
Addressing the media yesterday, Kyrgios admitted: “It’s a bit different this time round for me, being one of the favourites. Usually I am a dark horse type thing. Now, after the year I have had, I am one of the favourites. It’s all new for me as well. This is the first time I have genuinely gone into a slam feeling like I’m one of the guys that can really take the trophy and knock on the door.”
Should Kyrgios triumph at Melbourne Park this year, he would become the first Australian to win the men’s singles title in Melbourne since Mark Edmondson in 1976. He would follow compatriot Ash Barty who claimed glory in front of her home crowd last January before announcing her shock retirement two months later.
“Well, I am one of the best players in the world,” he replied confidently. “I’m definitely going to go into the Australian Open with confidence. I feel like I’ve proven that I can go deep into a Grand Slam. I’ve always been pretty good. You know, I was the No 1 junior in the world. I transitioned pretty early. But I just feel like I’m so consistent.
“That was the main thing [last season], being able to put it in week-in, week-out, with dedication in practice sessions. Just ticking all the boxes. So hopefully the consistency stays there this year.”
