DENIED WILDCARD, AUSSIE MAKES OPEN DRAW HIS WAY
Thanasi Kokkinakis has gatecrashed the Australian Open’s main draw, conceding he is spurred by “a bit of a chip” on his shoulder after being snubbed for a wildcard.
Refusing to comment on speculation of a rift with Davis Cup captain Lleyton Hewitt, other than to describe media reports as “bullshit”, Kokkinakis downed Canadian Peter Polansky 6-4 6-4 yesterday to earn a main draw spot.
Shaking with emotion after eliminating Polansky, Kokkinakis said: “It’s more than you can imagine – this is probably one of the most satisfying wins I’ve had in my career for a lot of reasons.
“I’m happy to do it the hard way. A few things have been going on, but I’m really happy.”
Asked if being overlooked for a wildcard in favour of lower-ranked Australians Alexei Popyrin, Marc Polmans and Alex Bolt made qualifying sweeter, he said: “Yeah it does, it does. I’ve definitely got a bit of a chip on my shoulder.
“Now, looking back, I’m happy I didn’t get a wildcard, I’m happy I did it this way.
“I wish the guys that got the wildcard all the best, but this means a lot to me ... I’m just happy I’m in the main draw.
“I did it myself, I did it the hard way. I got no help apart from my team, my family.
“I’m happy I stuck to my team and did it my way.”
But the extent of his run could be compromised by right arm soreness.
Asked if he could make main draw inroads, Kokkinakis said: “I hope so but I’ve got a few things with my body at the moment I’ve got to check out.
“Hopefully I get the all-clear and I’m going to give it everything I have.”