LONDON: Nick Kyrgios set the tone Tuesday for a Wimbledon blockbuster with bitter rival Rafael Nadal by stating: “We have mutual respect — but that’s about it.”
Kyrgios opened his Wimbledon campaign with a 7-6 (7/4), 3-6, 7-6 (12/10), 0-6, 6-1 win over fellow Australian Jordan Thompson.
However, all attention was on his second round duel with Nadal after the two-time champion defeated Japanese qualifier Yuichi Sugita 6-3, 6-1, 6-3.
“I get along with people. Some people I don’t get along with. “We have a mutual respect — but that’s about it, I think,” said Kyrgios. Nadal and Kyrgios have been involved in a bitter war of words this year since the Australian defeated the 18-time major champion in a stormy clash in Acapulco.
It was the Australian’s third win over Nadal in six meetings. Nadal accused his opponent of “lacking respect” after serving underarm, while Kyrgios described the Spaniard as “super salty” and being his “polar opposite”.
Kyrgios then became involved in a slanging match with Toni Nadal, the world number two’s uncle and former coach, who lambasted the Australian for his on-court behaviour. – AFP
