Nick Kyrgios recently opened up about having no shame in admitting that money still motivates him. The Australian opened his 2026 season by competing at the Brisbane International.
Kyrgios faced an early loss in his season opener at the Brisbane International. He met Aleksander Kovacevic in the first round, where the latter claimed a two-straight-set (6-3, 6-4) win. Ahead of this, he competed in the doubles of the Citi Open alongside Gael Monfils. He faced a first-round exit in this tournament too.
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The Australian competed in three singles tournaments last year and faced early exits in all of them, including the Australian Open, Indian Wells Masters, and Miami Open. During the post-presser of the 2026 Brisbane International journey, Kyrgios was asked about his motivation behind competing despite facing multiple losses on the court. Revealing the reason, he said:
“Yeah, like we say that money is not, I mean, not everything and it’s not a motivation, but from where I started with in my life and my tennis career, it’s a lot of my motivation. My parents were not wealthy growing up at all. It is a big motivation of mine to continue to be around and make as much money as possible. I don’t think there is shame in saying that either,” Nick Kyrgios said.
The 30-year-old recently competed in the ‘Battle of Sexes’ exhibition match against Aryna Sabalenka on December 28, 2025.
Nick Kyrgios opened up about being nervous while facing Aryna Sabalenka in the Battle of Sexes
Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka locked horns in one of the most anticipated ‘Battle of Sexes’ event at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. The Australian won the showdown in two straight sets (6-3, 6-3).
Following the win, Kyrgios sat for an interview, where he revealed that he was nervous about facing the World No. 1 during the match. Highlighting the anticipation that was built around the event and the criticism he faced, he said:
“Of course I was nervous. I don’t think many people would’ve put their hand up to be in this position. Especially in my position. Aryna was up for the challenge. The scoreline was closer than it was. I was under the pump there,” said Nick Kyrgios.
He added:
“She nearly broke me back. Anything happens once the crowd gets behind her. I was nervous. This was all the world was talking about for the last 6 months. From where I was 2 years ago, I was sidelined. I wasn’t able to use my right hand. To get back out here and compete with someone as great as Aryna is honestly pretty emotional.”
Nick Kyrgios is expected to get a wildcard at the Australian Open 2026. The former player, Mark Philippoussis, has already questioned this decision by highlighting the Australian’s seriousness about his career.
Edited by Tushhita Barua
