Nick Kyrgios may be one of the most polarising figures on the tennis court, but over the last two weeks of Wimbledon he’s won over legions of fans.
That’s because he has been providing expert punditry and analysis on the television coverage throughout the 2024 Championships.
Kyrgios has been out of action with injury since January 2023 and given a glimpse of what his career could be like after tennis.
On the BBC, he has been the high profile analyst joining the likes of Tim Henman and John McEnroe for the major matches.
The Australian has also been moonlighting as Novak Djokovic’s hitting partner, giving fascinating insight into how the 24-time Grand Slam winner has been overcoming injury.
It is a role he has relished, writing on X before the men’s final between Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz: “Excited to call the men’s final tomorrow on BBC!!!! What do you guys think about this one?!?!?!? THE REMATCH.”
Kyrgios has received widespread praise for his work in the commentary box throughout Wimbledon.
Tennis Channel’s John Wertheim wrote on X: “You know who has already won this tournament? Nick Kyrgios calling this for BBC – a fear in itself – and nailing it. Observant. Efficient with words. Lacking the self-referenrial flab that can plague other Broadcast.”
The 2022 Wimbledon finalist has also won over fans on social media too.
One person wrote on X: “Nick Kyrgios might be the best ex pro commentator I’ve heard in any sport.”
Another said: “Never thought I liked Nick Kyrgios but turns out that was just as a player, as a commentator I think he is fabulous! Insightful, honest, knowledgeable about the modern game & cool & calm which I would never have expected.A revelation I hope he does more.”
A third added: “Nick Kyrgios is a marmite sort of guy, but he’s been top class on commentary. Offers genuine insight and clearly is so passionate about the sport.”
But for now it seems that Kyrgios will return to the tennis court before perhaps taking up a permanent role in the commentary booth.
Djokovic thinks that he has plenty more to give on the court before hanging up his racket.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion said: “I can tell you a few days ago when we practiced – actually yesterday I think it was when we practiced – he hit a really good serve, and he said, Well, I might come back at the US Open. So I don’t know if he was joking about it or not. But let me tell you, he’s hitting the ball as good as ever really.
“He’s so talented. He’s so good with his tennis. I think he said that the wrist bothers him mostly with the serve, but he’s been increasing the load and the intensity and the speed. He’s not going for full pace or full-strength serve, but he’s close to that. He’s close to that.
“He’s very positive. It’s nice to see him full of life, full of energy. Like, he’s really pumped to be here in Wimbledon enjoying our practice sessions and commentating. He’s an extremely important guy for our sport. I think he brings new fans.
“So, yeah, I hope he can come back personally, and I think everyone in tennis hopes he can come back quickly because we definitely need him on the tour.”
Whenever Kyrgios does decide to retire, the broadcasters will be clamouring to sign him up as a pundit.
News Summary:
- Nick Kyrgios hailed as the real champion of Wimbledon as he thrives in new job
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