WHAT is it with our constant obsession about creating villains? You’d think, given all the chatter over the recent week, Canberra’s Nick Kyrgios was public enemy number one, rather than the most exciting prospect Australian tennis has seen in years.
Let’s get one thing clear – this sporting prodigy, who honed his skills on the Lyneham courts, is only 20 years old. I think back to when I was this age and I’m certain my parents would declare I was far from fully mature. Neither is Nick.
Marcus Paul.
And all this drama eagerly lapped up by the world’s media, looking for a headline from someone who dares to be different.
There is little doubt many, who love the spectacle of top-class sport, may find Nick’s carry-on jarring. He is a colourful character, from the studded ears to the slick hairstyle, with a swagger about him. But he is also an electric sportsman, strutting the court as if he owns it, taking on the best in the world with seemingly little fear. His demeanor, emotion and talent are there for the world to see.
A quick glance at the top 10 dummy spits in world tennis and there is little doubt Nick has potential… but is still a long way off from the “You cannot be serious” screams of a McEnroe or the hissy fits aimed at distracting opponents of Jimmy Connors.
I think it best to leave the last word to his mother here, Nill Kyrgios, who says her son grew up watching Roger Federer and she wants her son to act a little more like him.
This Canberra wunderkid may well go close to emulating Roger’s 17 Grand Slam victories and become the mature and highly regarded sportsman as his idol. I know I’m right behind him and for anyone who doubts Nick’s drive or potential, I say: “You cannot be Kyrgios”!
Marcus Paul is the host of 2CC’s drive show
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