From Rivals to “Bromance”: The Unexpected Friendship of Nick Kyrgios & Novak Djokovic
Tennis is no stranger to fierce rivalries, but few have taken as unexpected a turn as the relationship between Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic. Once at odds, their dynamic has evolved into a playful friendship, with Kyrgios himself admitting, “We definitely have a bit of a bromance now, which is weird.”
Their rivalry began when Kyrgios questioned Djokovic’s GOAT status, sparking a war of words. However, in 2022, things changed dramatically when Kyrgios publicly supported Djokovic during his controversial Australian Open deportation saga. That moment laid the foundation for what has now become an unlikely camaraderie.
Doubles Partners? Djokovic Wants More
Their growing chemistry was on display earlier this year when the duo teamed up for doubles at the Brisbane International, charming fans despite an early exit. And Djokovic wants another shot at playing alongside Kyrgios.
As reported by Tennis Majors on March 21, Djokovic shared how he convinced Kyrgios to join him in Brisbane, despite the Aussie’s reluctance due to his lingering wrist injury.
“I had to chase him down. He kept saying doubles wasn’t for him,” Djokovic admitted. “That’s maybe part of the reason why he’s been injured so much. I really do wish that he stays injury-free.”
Now, Djokovic is extending another invitation—this time for Kyrgios to join him at his home tournament in Belgrade at the end of the season.
“I really wish we play another time [in] doubles. Later this year, we have a tournament in Belgrade—I’m planning to play it. Maybe we should slam it there,” Djokovic suggested.
Kyrgios didn’t hesitate, responding on X (formerly Twitter):
“I’m in, partner ❤️.”
Kyrgios’ Comeback & Djokovic’s Milestone Chase
Kyrgios has struggled with injuries and early exits in recent tournaments, falling in the first round at the Australian Open and Indian Wells. However, he finally broke his two-year winless streak at the Miami Open, defeating Mackenzie McDonald in a hard-fought 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory.
Meanwhile, Djokovic is chasing his 100th career title, with his next challenge coming against Rinky Hijikata.
More Than Tennis: Kyrgios Backs Djokovic’s PTPA Movement
Beyond the court, Kyrgios has also thrown his support behind the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), which Djokovic co-founded in 2021. The PTPA recently made waves by filing lawsuits against the ATP, WTA, ITF, and ITIA, accusing them of operating as a “cartel” that exploits players and compromises their health.
Investor Bill Ackman, whose Pershing Square Foundation has pledged $26 million to the PTPA’s commercial arm, Winners Alliance, emphasized the harsh financial reality most players face:
“The reality is a loss-making, health-threatening grind for all but the top 100 or so players. The time for this to stop is now.”
Kyrgios didn’t miss the chance to back Djokovic’s cause, replying:
“You know it, partner 😉.”
What’s Next?
With Kyrgios working his way back from injury and Djokovic still dominating the sport, their friendship continues to captivate fans. Whether they reunite on the doubles court in Belgrade remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this is one of the most unexpected friendships in tennis history.
What do you think?
Is Kyrgios & Djokovic’s “bromance” the most surprising tennis friendship ever?
