Hometown hero Nick Kyrgios will be a major contender at this year’s Australian Open. He might not be one of the prime favorites, but one should never count him out as a threat. There’s always a chance of him pulling an upset, and American tennis legend Jim Courier weighed in on Kyrgios’ chances at Melbourne this year. 

Nick Kyrgios returned to the circuit after a one-year lay-off, and the Australian will know that he’ll face a challenging path at the Australian Open. Likewise, Jim Courier touched on how the 25-year-old can succeed at the ‘Happy Slam’ this year. 

Jim Courier demands optimum fitness from Nick Kyrgios

Nick Kyrgios is currently competing at the ATP Murray River Open to warm-up for the first Grand Slam of the year. Kyrgios did not have it easy against World No. 209 Alexandre Muller in the first round, and Jim Courier is concerned about the Australian’s fitness after a long lay-off. 

“He should be in a great frame, because he’s been home, he’s been around his friends and family, and hopefully he’s had a good block of training,” Courier said. 

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The former AO quarterfinalist stood back from competing in the 2020 season as he was concerned about playing amid the pandemic. Kyrgios took an extended break from tennis, which he felt was much deserved, and now has returned to play his home tournaments. 

“And we’ll figure that out once play gets underway because that’s when you know – the ocean recedes and you can see who’s been swimming with their clothes on or who’s been swimming naked,” Courier added about Kyrgios’ chances. 

Jim Courier has won the Australian Open twice, and he knows what it takes to win a Slam. While Nick Kyrgios is yet to achieve that feat, there remains a promising chance that he’ll be able to do it. 

Nick Kyrgios hasn’t played a Grand Slam in over a year, and this would indeed play a part in the challenging tournament that lies ahead for the hometown hero. He will undeniably have the fans’ support, but how far will the 25-year-old go at Australian Open 2021?

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