After being eliminated from the US Open, Daniil Medvedev was full of praise for Nick Kyrgios, who defeated the world number one in four sets in the fourth round. Medvedev believes that the Australian wins the Grand Slam in New York.
Kyrgios won the night from Sunday to Monday (Netherlands time) 7-6 (11), 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 over the defending champions. “The competition was at a high level,” Medvedev said. “Today he played Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, they are all great.”
“Nick is such a tough opponent, he has a great service,” the Russian continued, speaking of his opponent. “If he maintains this level, he has every chance of winning the championship.”
Medvedev said he was not at his best, in part because of the air conditioning in the United States. “I felt sick. The air conditioner here is crazy. I had a bit of a sore throat. That played a role today. But that’s no excuse, Nick played very well.”
Kyrgios: I loved every moment
Kyrgios was happy with his game afterwards. “I had so much fun and loved every moment. It’s a great experience to beat the world number one Arthur Ashe.”
The 27-year-old Australian has been open about the mental battle he has endured in recent years. “I felt like I was very selfish when I had mental issues.”
“I felt bad and didn’t want to play,” Kyrgios continued. “But then I looked at the people close to me and how much I let them down and I didn’t want that anymore.”
“I feel like I make people proud right now,” Kyrgios said. “There aren’t a lot of negative things being said about me anymore. I’ve always felt so depressed, and I’ve always felt sorry for myself. I wanted to change that too.”
Nick Kyrgios cheering after winning a point.
Nick Kyrgios cheering after winning a point.
picture: AP
