Nick Kyrgios, the ever-entertaining Australian tennis ace, has added another quirky tidbit to his colorful repertoire of on-court antics and off-court revelations. The 29-year-old, known for his fiery personality and bold commentary, recently confessed to an unusual on-court ritual—playing tennis without wearing underwear.
Speaking on Nova’s Jase & Lauren radio show, Kyrgios humorously shared the unfiltered detail while discussing boxer Mike Tyson’s unconventional post-fight outfit. His statement, delivered with a typical Kyrgios flair, gave fans yet another reason to view his matches a little differently.
“Free-Balling” Through Grand Slams
The revelation came during a light-hearted exchange with the show’s hosts. When asked if he adhered to the conventional practice of keeping pants on in the dressing room for potential TV camera appearances, Kyrgios didn’t hold back.
“I actually don’t!” he laughed. “Fun fact for you guys: I free-ball when I play tennis. So, when I’m playing the Grand Slams, you can just picture me now, free-balling.”
Kyrgios explained the reasoning behind his unconventional choice. “I need to feel it nice and free down there when I’ve got break points,” he said, cementing his reputation for prioritizing comfort—and individuality—over tradition.
Reflecting on Tennis’ New Landscape
The candid chat wasn’t just about clothing choices. Kyrgios also took the opportunity to share his thoughts on the state of professional tennis, expressing frustration at the sport’s perceived lack of intensity in the wake of legends like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal stepping away.
“It’s become bland,” he declared. “Everyone’s friends with each other. I hate that s***, to be honest.”
Drawing comparisons to Australian staples like AFL and NRL, Kyrgios lamented the absence of drama and rivalries that keep fans glued to their screens. “As Aussies, we love sports that are rough, with a bit of bad blood. That’s why we watch—to be entertained,” he said. “I’m all for being friends off the court, but inside the lines, there’s too much respect right now in tennis.”
A Bumpy Road to the Australian Open
Kyrgios’ return to the Australian Open in January is highly anticipated after two injury-plagued years. Persistent knee and wrist issues sidelined him for much of the past 24 months, but he remains optimistic about his form ahead of the Melbourne Grand Slam.
Fans are eager to see if Kyrgios can channel his undeniable talent into a strong performance at the tournament, especially with the absence of Federer and Nadal shifting the competitive landscape.
The Fire Still Burns
Never one to shy away from controversy or candid remarks, Kyrgios’ comments reflect his larger-than-life personality, which often polarizes fans. Yet, his passion for the game—and his commitment to entertaining audiences—remains undeniable.
For Kyrgios, tennis is as much about showmanship as it is about skill. Whether it’s his unconventional wardrobe choices, his blunt takes on the sport, or his on-court theatrics, one thing’s for sure: love him or loathe him, Kyrgios guarantees entertainment every time he steps onto the court.
Beyond Tennis: A Larger-Than-Life Persona
This latest revelation is just another chapter in Kyrgios’ storied career. From his public feuds with players like Bernard Tomic to his unapologetic candor on societal issues, Kyrgios continues to stand out in a sport often defined by its decorum.
Whether this candor helps him regain his competitive edge remains to be seen, but one thing’s certain: when Nick Kyrgios takes the court at the Australian Open, he’ll have the eyes—and imaginations—of the tennis world firmly fixed on him.