ANDY SAVED MYNICK’SLIFE
NICK KYRGIOS’ mother has revealed how tennis legend Andy Murray helped save her son’s life.
Training with the young Australian a few years ago, the Scot noticed evidence of self-harm on Kyrgios’ body and expressed his concern to the Canberran’s former boss, John Morris.
His mother, who broke down into tears in an emotional interview with Nine News just hours before Kyrgios’ maiden Grand Slam final, was later informed and was distraught as her son’s life spiralled out of control.
The match against world No.1 Novak Djokovic comes at the end of a turbulent week for the family, following Tuesday’s revelations that Kyrgios will face a Canberra court next month on an assault charge.
“The self-harming ... I saw that and people told me that,” Nill Kyrgios said.
“I asked him about it and he didn’t want to talk about it at that time. John told me that Andy is worried about Nick because he can see some evidence of selfharm. And I blame others for that. For just pressuring him, criticising him.
“That period was very hard. I just wanted to be next to him constantly so I could see him. If I could see him, I know he’s OK. And if I can’t see him, I worry about him so much that it becomes very difficult.
“I am happy. I will celebrate this occasion. I am super proud that he made it through everything. I’m happy that he’s come out well the other end. You just don’t know what pressure does to people. It’s worrying for a parent.”
Nill struggled to control her emotions during the interview. The fact that 20 years ago doctors told her husband George that she
wouldn’t live past Christmas after being diagnosed with eosinophilia only heightens her joy and pride.
“That’s the first Christmas I ever spent away from my family and children,” she said.
“Nick was four or five. When I came out of hospital George told me the doctor said, ‘you won’t live past Christmas’. But I was so determined because my kids needed me still.
“I had a very happy childhood but when I came to Australia it was the worst time of my life.
“I was lonely. I didn’t want my kids to ever feel like they didn’t have someone. Time is what I gave them. A lot of time. I’m happy. I’m good. I don’t know why I’m crying all the time. I’m good.”
While Nick once pushed his family away as he battled depression, the connection between him and his family is as strong as it has ever been.
“I love it,” Nill said. “He’s very kind and he’s loving. He tells me he loves me every day. That’s the kid that I love. And I always wanted to do that but he shied away from it for a bit.
“When he was little we were so close. It’s nice to have him back. It’s really nice. I’m happy for him. He’s happy and enjoying life and appreciating every little thing. It’s a good feeling.”