Nicholas Kyrgios is a tremendous athlete and one of the most talented tennis players in the world. Many in tennis feel he could also be one of the best tennis players in the world. But Kyrgios will have to bridge the gulf between talent and greatness — and he may need some help to build that bridge. After Kyrgios withdrew from the US Open during a third round match with a hip injury, Hall of Famer John McEnroe questioned his desire, saying: “Nick Kyrgios, if you don’t want to be a professional tennis player, do something else. He’s hurt because he’s not training enough.”
Kyrgios is ranked No. 16 in the world, so there’s little doubt he’s got designs on building the bridge. But he’s trying to do it solo. The fiery Kyrgios doesn’t even have a coach. Almost every top player in the sport has a coach. Check for McEnroe’s old rival Ivan Lendl in Andy Murray‘s box every match, for example. Kyrgios is smart, though, and he hears the doubters. In fact he’s one of them sometimes. Kyrgios’ fans and all those who want to see the greatness bridge constructed were cheered by a tweet he gave after his loss. First thing about a lesson is you have to want to learn it. Kyrgios pledges that he won’t let this regrettable withdraw go to waste.
Its only a failure if you don’t learn the lesson. #flushingmeadows16 https://t.co/jMgq4w1PXr
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) September 4, 2016
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