Novak Djokovic announced his return in style on Friday with a stunning victory in his Miami opener. Looking to clinch his 100th ATP title, the 24-time GS winner didn’t take much time in ousting the young Aussie talent Rinky Hijikata. With that, the Serbian also ended his two-match losing streak, coming from Doha and Indian Wells, to take the first step toward a record seventh Miami title. While Djokovic’s victory was down to the showcase of his extraordinary skills, a crucial contribution made by a good friend might also have helped. Some of you might have Nick Kyrgios’ name already. Yes, you are right! But how did the Aussie help the Serb maestro?
After handing Hijikata a bagel in the first set, Nole cruised into the next round with a final score line of 6-0, 7-6(1). And you know what? It was Djokovic’s 410th ATP 1000 win. With that, he’s now leveled with tennis legend Rafael Nadal for the most 1000-level match wins since the format’s introduction in 1990. Alongside fans, his bromance partner and former World No.13 Kyrgios was also watching the match with utmost attention. Needless to say, the Aussie was impressed with what he saw.
During the early moments of the match, Kyrgios took to X and shared a brief clip of Djokovic serving against Hijikata. The Serbian was seen showcasing the might of his backhand. The 24-year-old had no idea how to handle it. Commenting on that, Kyrgios revealed a little secret. “I told Andy before the match he has to get back to redirecting that backhand man ,” he wrote. Well!
I told Andy before the match he has to get back to redirecting that backhand man https://t.co/LbwpgEnxkN
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) March 21, 2025
It seems Kyrgios had a chit-chat with Djoker’s current coach and former British pro Andy Murray. And he may have discussed how his friend could improve his backhand accuracy even further. Well, seeing the clip and the eventual result, one would say the discussion was fruitful. But what about Kyrgios’ own journey in Miami? Sadly, it’s over. Russia’s Karen Khachanov ousted him in R64, on Friday, with a brutal score line of 7-6(3), 6-0.
Despite the setback though, Kyrgios ended up receiving good news from Miami. It seems he’s going to reunite with his friend Djokovic in the near future. And the Aussie is unable to contain his excitement!
Nick Kyrgios says yes to Novak Djokovic’s invitation
For the unversed, Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic previously played doubles together earlier this season. Back in January, they competed in the Brisbane International. Unfortunately, the pair couldn’t move forward after losing to the top-seeded pair of Michael Venus and Nikola Mektic in their second match. The 29-year-old then lost to Jacob Fearnley in the first round of the Australian Open singles, before withdrawing mid-match from his R1 doubles campaign with his partner Thanasi Kokkinakis.
Kyrgios couldn’t play at all ever since and it was only at the Indian Wells that he made a comeback and got ousted in the first round by Botic van de Zandschulp. Kyrgios may now be out from Miami as well, but Djokovic believes they will have a good time playing the doubles together once again. Where though?
After Kyrgios won his opening encounter in the Miami Open, the Serbian expressed his happiness to see him back in action. “I congratulated him, I was glad for him because he’s had injuries and he was absent from the Tour, we know all the struggles. I think it’s his first win in a couple of years, so it’s great to see him back and playing well,” the former World No. 1 said.
He then extended an invitation to Kyrgios for a team-up. “I do really wish that we play another time (in) doubles,” he said. “Later on this year we have a tournament in Belgrade, I’m planning to play it. I don’t know if he’s planning to come, so maybe, yeah, maybe we should slam it there.” And guess what? His buddy didn’t take long to say yes. Taking to X, Kyrgios replied, “I’m in partner ”
So it’s official now. Wouldn’t it be simply amazing to witness these two on the court again? What are your thoughts?
The post “I Told Andy” – Nick Kyrgios Reveals His Hidden Role in Novak Djokovic’s Strong Miami Open Start appeared first on EssentiallySports.
