Australian tennis icon Pat Rafter has delivered a candid and revealing assessment of Nick Kyrgios, explaining why he ultimately "washed his hands" of the controversial star during his peak playing years. Speaking on the Shaped by Trent Cotchin podcast, the two-time US Open champion expressed profound disappointment that Kyrgios failed to fulfil what he believes was world-beating potential.
A Talent That 'Scared' Rafter
Rafter did not mince words when describing Kyrgios's natural ability, stating the Canberra-born player possessed an all-round game so formidable it genuinely intimidated him. "The guy was - because he's never coming back to what he was - so talented and so good it scared me," Rafter confessed to AFL great Trent Cotchin. He elaborated that Kyrgios's unique skill set, which included the rare distinction of beating Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer the first time he faced each legend, pointed to a career of historic achievement.
The Grand Slam Prediction That Never Materialised
The former world number one presented a compelling hypothetical, suggesting that had Kyrgios combined his extraordinary talent with the dedicated mindset of a fellow Australian player like Dane Sweeny, the results would have been staggering. "If he had the attitude of (fellow Aussie) Dane Sweeny, if you had that combination, you go 'Oh my god, this guy is winning 10 Grand Slams'. I'm telling you right now, that's how good he was," Rafter asserted. This stark evaluation underscores the gap between Kyrgios's peak world ranking of 13 and the multiple major titles Rafter believes was within his grasp.
Frustration and a Decision to 'Let It Go'
Rafter's commentary moved beyond mere analysis into personal sentiment, admitting he felt "frustrated and angry" that the mercurial entertainer seemed unwilling to pursue avenues for improvement. He interpreted Kyrgios's notorious on-court outbursts and perceived lack of effort as a defence mechanism. "I think his way of letting his frustrations show was just through his attitude and not trying because he was scared," Rafter speculated. This frustration led Rafter, who initially wanted to help guide Kyrgios, to a point of resignation. "(In the end) I just had to let it all go," he stated, revealing his decision to step back.
Recent Events Highlight Ongoing Drama
Rafter's reflections arrive amid renewed public scrutiny of Kyrgios's off-court conduct. The Wimbledon finalist was recently filmed outside a Melbourne nightclub at 7 a.m., engaged in an argument with security staff as he attempted to re-enter. In a bizarre moment, he was seen dropping to one knee before the venue entrance. This incident followed footage of him partying hard at another Melbourne club, Bar Bambi, on January 26th, just hours before losing a mixed doubles match at the Australian Open.
Kyrgios has also been spotted in Melbourne's CBD with his new love interest, marketing manager Alexia Alessi, following his split from influencer Costeen Hatzi last year. These episodes continue a pattern that has often overshadowed his tennis, even as he remains a significant drawcard for fans.
A Career of Unfulfilled Promise
Now 30 and plagued by a spate of injuries that have severely limited his appearances on the ATP tour, Kyrgios's window for achieving major singles success appears closed. His standout 2022 season, which saw him reach the Wimbledon final only to fall to Djokovic, now stands as the high-water mark of a career Rafter views as defined by missed opportunity. Despite a recent headline-grabbing exhibition win over women's world number one Aryna Sabalenka last December, the consensus, echoed by Rafter, is that his best days on the court are behind him.
Rafter's poignant conclusion captures the sentiment of many Australian tennis observers: "When you see a talent like Nick come along, as an Australian public you get really disappointed because he hasn't reached his potential." His analysis serves as a stark postscript to the career of one of tennis's most gifted and divisive figures.
