Nick to break his duck
UPBEAT after almost blocking Roger Federer’s return to the world No.1 ranking, Nick Kyrgios aims to correct a grass court anomaly against nemesis Andy Murray.
Widely feared on the slickest surface in tennis, Wimbledon quarterfinalist Kyrgios is yet to win a singles match at Queen’s Club.
But the explosive Australian intends to break through against former world No.1 Murray, whose grass court pedigree includes two Wimbledon crowns and a record five Fever-Tree Championships.
“I have never won a round here and I continually come back here for some reason,” the Canberran said.
“Yeah, I guess I just like the house sort of environment and my team being close by.
“You know, it just feels like home, I guess. It’s a home away from home. It’s an easy tournament.
“It’s awesome to play here. Yeah, it’s good.”
Kyrgios said his right elbow had healed, and he was bristling with confidence after pushing Federer to the brink in a Mercedes Cup semi-final in Stuttgart last week.
“To play (Feliciano) Lopez my first tournament back on grass, you know, obviously he’s pretty good on grass, won this event (Queen’s) last year, and to beat him and obviously was in complete control against Roger in the third set tiebreak at one stage, I’m feeling confident,” he said.
“I’m feeling good my level is still there.
“I feel my elbow is fine and I played three quality matches in Stuttgart. Obviously pretty disappointed I didn’t win against Roger but it was a good match.”
Kyrgios was in a similar frame of mind here last season until he slipped and injured his hip before retiring against Donald Young.
The problem compromised his Wimbledon preparations, contributing to a rare first-round exit at the All England Club.
“This time last year I was actually pain-free and ended up slipping over in my match,” he said.
“I was in the same position here last year. So hopefully that doesn’t happen tomorrow.
“I feel good. I played a couple good matches and I feel good.”
Murray is contesting his first match since Wimbledon last year, having had hip surgery in Melbourne in January.
Kyrgios practised with Lleyton Hewitt next to Murray, the pair exchanging smiles as they worked out.
“I’m excited,” Kyrgios said. “(Murray’s) obviously one of my better mates on tour.
“It’s just good to see him back. I think it’s been pretty s----- without him.
“I’m looking forward to going out there and playing. But to see him healthy is the main thing, you know, I think he’s awesome for the sport.”
Queenslander John Millman faces triple Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic in the first round.
Kyrgios and Millman have been given centre court billing at the premier Wimbledon lead-up event.