Seven Australians are in action on day one at this year’s US Open, including a first-round battle between close friends Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios.
New York, USA, 29 August 2022 | Leigh Rogers
Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios take centre stage on day one at this year’s US Open, with their highly anticipated first-round showdown scheduled at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
“It’s just going to be an experience. For us to go out there and play on Arthur Ashe Stadium together, it’s something that’s pretty special,” Kyrgios told tennis.com.au.
Kyrgios predicts the match will be “an emotional roller coaster”, while Kokkinakis is hoping for “fireworks”.
“It will be interesting,” Kokkinakis said. “Obviously he’s got an unbelievable serve and he’s playing some great tennis right now, but I know on my day I can match it with anyone.”
> READ: Kokkinakis excited ahead of Kyrgios clash
The Aussie mates share the night session billing with 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams, who is contesting the final Grand Slam tournament in her storied career. Kokkinakis and Kyrgios’ match, their first in a major tournament, should start around 10.30am AEST tomorrow (Tuesday morning).
The US Open is broadcast on the Nine Network and Stan Sport in Australia, with coverage beginning from 1am AEST.
Aussies in action:
[23] Nick Kyrgios (AUS) v Thanasi Kokkinakis (AUS)
Men’s singles, first round, Arthur Ashe Stadium, night session, second match
Doubles partners Kyrgios and Kokkinakis become rivals. This is their third showdown, and first in over eight years, as professional players. The 27-year-old Kyrgios is one of the tournament favourites after winning 22 of his past 27 matches, which includes his stunning Wimbledon final run. While 26-year-old Kokkinakis makes his fourth US Open main draw appearance ranked No.70 and aiming to score his first Grand Slam win against a seeded opponent since beating Bernard Tomic at Roland Garros in 2015.
Head-to-head record: Kyrgios leads 2-0
Last meeting: Kyrgios won 6-1 6-3 (Savannah, April 2014)
> READ: Kyrgios ready for Kokkinakis challenge
John Millman (AUS) v [WC] Emilio Nava (USA)
Men’s singles, first round, Court 7, first match (from 1am AEST)
Making his eighth consecutive US Open appearance, 33-year-old Millman would love to replicate his stunning 2018 quarterfinal run. The world No.103, who has progressed beyond the first round only once in his past seven Grand Slam…
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