Quirky Kyrgios readies his disappearing act

Nick Kyrgios may be laying the groundwork for his eventual disappearance from tennis as the iconoclastic Aussie continues to chart his own contrarian course.

Last year’s Wimbledon finalist who has played just one match this season – a loss in Stuttgart to China’s Wu Yibing – is onsite this week in Los Angeles for an exhibition event where he is describing himself as a “coach” of Frances Tiafoe.

But the Australian who has always played by his own rules – eschewing a coach, for instance – is dropping hints that his time on court may be coming to an end.

For one thing, the No. 35 is annoyed by the ATP schedule – specifically the clay-court portion of the season. He’s also never been a fan of the travelling required to compete on the Tour.

“The schedule is out of control,” he said. “I’m getting old. I’m 28, but with all the alcohol and partying it’s like I’m 57. 

“(Age) 33 is crazy – I won’t play until I’m 33. 

“Once I’m retired, you won’t see me again.” 

After a 2023 dominated by injury absences, Kyrgios is due to front up next week for the hardcourt Washington event, which he won in 2019 and 2022.

Main photo:- Nick Kyrgios with the 2022 Citibank Washington Trophy ©citibank