A potentially exciting fourth round awaits in the men’s singles category at the Australian Open as Rafael Nadal and Nick Kyrgios are expected to meet.

In the press conference after his third round match, Nadal was asked about Kyrgios, to which he replied: “I don’t know. I don’t know him personally to have a clear opinion.

“It’s clear of course that when he does stuff in my opinion is not good, I don’t like. When he plays good tennis and he shows passion for the game, he is a positive player for the tour, and I want my tour bigger, not smaller.

“So, the players who make the tour bigger are important for the tour. When he is ready to play his best tennis and play with passion, he is one of these guys. When he is doing other stuff, of course, I don’t like.”

Rafael Nadal cruised against countryman in the third round

Nadal secured a 6-1 6-2 6-4 victory against fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno in the third round.

Nadal dominated the match, defeating the 27th seed in one hour and 38 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

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“It’s my best match of the tournament so far without a doubt so that’s a very good thing,” Nadal said after the match.

“I’m super happy. Sorry for Pablo because he’s a good friend of mine.

“When the conditions are warmer the ball bounces higher and flies through the air. That helps my game.

“I did very well with my serves and started to hit some forehands down the line. That is key for me.”

Nadal will face Kyrgios if he manages to win against Karen Khachanov in his third round fixture on Saturday.