“He is an excellent talent and he will leave his mark on tennis.” This statement came from one of the greatest tennis players of all time and currently the world’s number one, Rafael Nadal when he was asked to comment on the potential of the youngster Thanassi Kokkinaki, a few moments after their encounter. Rafael Nadal came out victorious, as it was expected from the match against the Greek-Australian and moved further in the Australian Open. However, Thanasi Kokkinakis was no easy win against Nadal and managed to attract media attention due to his promising skills and potential abilities.
“He has a great future and impressive perspectives. He has what it takes to become a great player. I wish him all the best” said Rafael Nadal about Thanasi Kokkinakis after their encounter in Rod Laver Arena, where numerous Greek expats where shouting in Kokkinakis’s favor creating an excellent atmosphere.
Another promising Greek-Australian tennis player with great potential is Nick Kyrgios. Nick Kyrgios also failed to progress to the next phase of the Australian Open, but he managed to impress with his overall performance. He faced on Thursday, Benoit Pare — currently number 27 in tennis world ranking — and was beaten in five sets 6-7, 6-7, 6-4, 6-2 and 6-2. He started off really well by winning the first 2 sets, but then he succumbed to Benoit’s experience and his body’s refusal to do what he was asking of it.
Consequently, Australia left with no male representatives in the Australian Open as both Kokkinakis and Kyrgios were eliminated.
However, many pundits agree on the fact that Kyrgios and Kokkinakis have a great future as they head out to the world of big boys tennis. Eyes will be on them for a long time to come.
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