Rival looks tough for Kyrgios

GIVEN Nick Kyrgios’s newfound focus, it’s unlikely his return showdown with Karen Khachanov at the Australian Open today will be as dramatic as their last explosive episode.

But it could be as competitive as Khachanov’s 6-7 (3-7) 7-6 (7-4) 6-2 win over Kyrgios in Cincinnati last August.

“Very aggressive player,” Kyrgios said of Russia’s 16th seed, who soared to No.8 in the world at one point last year.

“He’s difficult to play against. He’s got a big serve, big forehand, looks to dictate.”

Kyrgios’s loss to Khachanov proved somewhat of a turning point in the Australian’s turbulent career.

The result was overshadowed by a meltdown in which Kyrgios called respected Irish umpire Fergus Murphy a “potato” and a “f---ing tool”, triggering an ATP investigation.

After he later accused the ATP of being “corrupt”, Kyrgios withdrew the allegation and apologised but was hit with a 16-week suspended ban. It still hangs over his head. The 24-year-old admitted during the season-opening ATP Cup to “trying” to be better because “I’m on probation”.

He’s barely put a foot out of line since, even apologising for a few verbal tirades at his camp and Davis Cup captain Lleyton Hewitt during Thursday night’s 6-2 6-4 4-6 7-5 secondround win over Gilles Simon.

“I was being a bit of a d***head ... I apologised as soon as I went back into the locker room. They don’t deserve that,” Kyrgios said.

If he can beat Khachanov, Kyrgios will likely confront world No.1 Rafael Nadal in a Monday blockbuster.

Darren Walton and Callum Godde