Perth - Tennis player Nick Kyrgios says he wants to
work on reducing the stress of the ATP tour, as the top Australian
hope gets ready to open his 2017 season on Sunday at the Hopman Cup.
The world number 13, who recently served an official suspension for a
lack of effort on court, insisted Saturday he's done some thinking
and is trying to clean up his controversial tennis act.
"I'm just trying to learn a bit more about myself, and figure out
ways to enjoy the sport a bit more. And just enjoy the grind of it,"
the 21-year-old said.
Kyrgios said he will try to spend as much time as possible at home in
Canberra in 2017, a choice which he hopes will nullify his
up-and-down emotional swings.
"I don't want to have too much of a hectic schedule," Kyrgios said. "I don't want to be that guy travelling to every tournament every
week. I want to spend as much time as I can with my family and my
loved ones."
But before the season gets into full swing, Kyrgios will line up on
Sunday night for Australia's first Hopman Cup tie - men's and women's
singles plus mixed doubles - against Spain, alongside countrywoman
Daria Gavrilova, as the pair defend Australia's title from 12 months
ago.
Ahead of 2017, Kyrgios has been tipped for a top 10 spot by many,
including fellow participant at the eight-nation mixed team event,
Roger Federer.
"If he can be injury free and have a full year I'd say he's probably
going to crack the top 10," the Swiss star said in the Hopman
run-up.
"Nick knows he needs to clean up his act sometimes. But at the same time he also knows that I like that he shows
character and that he shows who he is ... a lot of people would die
to be in his position so I hope he's aware of that."
The event begins with the US taking on the Czech Republic on New
Year's Day. Federer and Belinda Bencic start for Switzerland Monday
evening against Britain with Dan Evans and Heather Watson.