Nick Kyrgios is a versatile player but can be volatile on court and he thrives on the vibe from the crowd, especially at home. Dominic Thi...
Nick Kyrgios is a versatile player but can be volatile on court and he thrives on the vibe from the crowd, especially at home.
Dominic Thiem is an electric player but can be erratic on court and he thrives on the energy he generates for himself, in almost any situation.
This was never more evident than when they clashed at the Australian Open on Friday
Both players have been around for long enough that their on and off court personalities are well known. There are few similarities between them, except when it comes to tennis: both are talent-filled, heavy-hitting world beaters who can take on any one on their day.
So when Thiem and Kyrgios set up their blockbuster third-round clash, there was understandable excitement for both the potential tennis and the atmosphere the home crowd would create.
As expected, the match delivered: a five-set classic with gaping momentum shifts, groundstroke rockets, and a gritty fight. The third seed emerged victorious after battling back from two sets to win 4-6, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in a match that, on closer examination, turned out to be symbolic of both Thiem and Kyrgios’ playing persona.
Showman Kyrgios vs Workman Thiem
The match started with Kyrgios breaking Thiem in the very first game, an indication of...
