Following the likes of former star Mark Philippoussis, two young Greek-Australians met in the final of the Australian Open Junior Tennis final. In his heyday, Philippoussis engaged in some battles with Greek-American star Pete Sampras.
That both players are of Greek origin, didn’t go unnoticed in the Australian press. “We want to show that Greeks can play tennis,” said Nick Kyrgios, who defeated his countryman Thanassis Kokkinakis, 7-6, 6-3.
Australians, particularly Greeks, are hopeful the young men can help the country regain his once-eminent standing as a power in professional tennis. Kyrgios joined the likes of such stars as Stefan Edberg, Andy Roddick, Marcos Baghdatis and Gael Monfils, who have also won the title.
Kokkinakis, 16, a friend of Kyrgios, fought to the very end but said he was struggling with a back injury. “I’d like to congratulate Thanassis. I’m proud of him,” Kyrgios said. “I’d like to say thanks to the Greek community for coming out today and all their support. This is a great tournament and I’m really excited for the rest of the year.”
Kokkinakis, who reached the final after getting a wild card entry into the tournament, said he was satisfied with his performance. “It’s an unbelievable feeling to play in front of Rod Laver and receive the trophy by Pat Rafter,” referring to two of the country’s greatest stars. Kokkinakis, who is from delaide said. “Nick was almost unbeatable, as he did not lose a set in the tournament. He deserved to win.”
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