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“I Enjoyed Playing Lefties” – Nick Kyrgios Says he’s Ready for Rafael Nadal

Published 01/25/2020, 2:24 PM EST

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Nick Kyrgios set up a blockbuster fourth-round clash against World No.1 Rafael Nadal at the Australian Open 2020 after he survived a thriller five-setter and defeated Karen Khachanov 6-2, 7-6(5), 6-7(6), 6-7(7), 7-6(10-8) on Saturday.

The Australian explained that he is prepared to face the defending runner-up at the Rod Laver Arena on Monday. Discussing his plans on his upcoming match against the Spaniard, Kyrgios admitted to having a plan against the left-hander.

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“I know what game plan I need”: Nick Kyrgios

The World No.26 is attempting to draw level in his head-to-head to 4-4 against his the 19-time Grand Slam champion. The Australian owns two wins from three matches on hard courts against the 19-time Grand Slam champion, including a victory en route to the Acapulco title last year.

Kyrgios believes he has a game plan to be successful against Nadal. However, he knows that the veteran will have a physical advantage over him after having a comparatively easier route through to the last 16.

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“Ever since juniors, I enjoyed playing lefties. I feel like I kind of know what game plan I need to bring to be successful against them,” he said in the post-match press conference.

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Also Read: “I Don’t Like It” Rafael Nadal Opens Up on Nick Kyrgios Attitude Issues

“I kind of know his patterns”: Kyrgios

“Rafa is a different beast altogether. I kind of know his patterns. Everyone knows his patterns, can’t do anything about it. Federer knows his patterns. Everyone knows his patterns. He executes them at the highest level,” Kyrgios further added.

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The 24-year-old thinks that physically he’ll be fine as he has a whole day off. He explained he’ll get some rest after this, do all the right things. He is also super excited to play one of the greatest tennis players on center court at his own slam.

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Written by:

Varun Khanna

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Starting off as a tennis author in 2018, Varun Khanna has gone on to contribute to EssentiallySports in various capacities. After setting up interviews with the likes of Serena Williams’ coach Patrick Mouratoglou, Alizé Cornet, and Noah Rubin, Varun is now part of all major ATP and WTA press conferences and has gone on to pen more than 1300 articles for EssentiallySports. He now heads the tennis and NBA division of the organization.
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