Djokovic: Kyrgios often sends me nightclub videos; his lack of discipline is severe, with his talent he should have been in the top ten long ago.

Tennis star Djokovic recently spoke about Australian player Kyrgios, admitting that Kyrgios is undoubtedly gifted, but only possesses about 5% of the discipline required by professional players. If he had 30% discipline, he would have easily reached the world top ten by now.

Recently, Djokovic gave a rare interview to Serbian media, openly discussing his unique friendship with Kyrgios and sharing deep insights into the Australian’s tennis career.

Djokovic said, “He truly has immense talent and potential, capable of incredible achievements, but neglecting his body has led him to where he is today. I hope he finishes his career on the court. If injuries prevent him from playing a few more major tournaments, that would be a real shame. Unfortunately, he lacks the necessary discipline—if he had 30%—he only has 5%—he would easily be in the world top ten. He played a Wimbledon final without warming up, without serious training, without a coach, and has beaten all our top players.”

Djokovic’s remarks about Kyrgios were both frank and fair. However, he sharply pointed out that Kyrgios’s lack of care for his body and discipline has directly limited the heights of his career.

Djokovic shared some anecdotes from their friendship, revealing their special bond: “He really likes sending me short videos from nightclubs and bars—I haven’t even replied to a single one!”

He revealed that Kyrgios often meets Serbians around the world, then drinks and socializes with them, sending these videos to Djokovic. “He always says, ‘Why do I keep running into Serbians everywhere?’ He goes to parties, meets one of my compatriots, they say, ‘Nick, you’re Serbian too!’ Then they hug, drink, and he sends me the video.”

In fact, Djokovic and Kyrgios’s relationship hasn’t always been friendly. Kyrgios once said on a podcast that Djokovic can’t be the greatest of all time, accusing him of craving recognition and having unsettling post-match celebrations. In 2019, Kyrgios even pretended not to know Djokovic during a child’s interview, then added, “I think I know him.”

In response to these less friendly comments, Djokovic said at the time, “I don’t think Kyrgios is a bad person, but I don’t know why he said those things. Maybe he just wanted attention or to stand out.”

The turning point came during Djokovic’s deportation from Australia in 2022. While most in tennis chose silence or neutrality, only Kyrgios publicly supported him, and Djokovic has not forgotten that support.

Djokovic expressed concern about Kyrgios’s career prospects: “I really hope he returns to tennis. He’s been through many injuries. He means a lot to our sport—even though he’s controversial and unique, people like him, and he definitely draws crowds.”

Tennis commentator Mary Carillo said, “Djokovic’s evaluation of Kyrgios is both honest and caring, highlighting the timeless issue of discipline versus talent in professional tennis.”

Sports psychologist Dr. James Thompson analyzed, “Kyrgios’s situation is not uncommon; many gifted athletes struggle with discipline. The key is finding internal motivation, not just relying on natural talent.”

Kyrgios is currently ranked 640th in the world and is trying to regain form through doubles. On this, the Serbian star spoke with some affection about Kyrgios’s situation: “As a friend, I really like him and hope he comes back… For tennis players, this is not an easy place to be—you’re neither here nor there, unofficially retired but still trying. I wish him all the best… maybe drink less and send fewer videos.”

What do you think about Djokovic’s comments on Kyrgios? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section!(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)