HIGHER GROUND

NICK Kyrgios has been emerging as the mature elder statesman of Australian tennis in recent years. Despite ongoing outbursts that are part of his persona, he has managed to balance that out by owning his mistakes, being honest about who he is and doing plenty of good through his charitable foundation.

Not to mention he is widely embraced for the chutzpah he brings to the pro tennis show, often referred to as “box office”. He’s further firmed up respect by taking the higher ground in his colourful verbal feud with fellow pro tennis star Bernard Tomic this week.

Kyrgios put an end to the pair’s playful jousting by quite genuinely expressing concern for any “life challenges” Tomic might be having as he tries to return to the top echelon – and wished him all that best. Well said that man.