Novak Djokovic has revealed plans for an exhibition match with Nick Kyrgios before the Australian Open.
Kyrgios has withdrawn from both the United Cup and Adelaide International in the lead-up to the tournament, managing an ankle injury he suffered in December.
Recently, Kyrgios posted an image on his Instagram hinting at a potential doubles pairing with Djokovic.
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Djokovic grinds out win in Adelaide | 01:01
“We are talking with the Australian Open about doing something in a week prior to the start of the tournament,” Djokovic said.
“Yes, I chatted with Nick and I would like to play with him, and he accepted, but he wants shorter sets. Let‘s see if that works out.”
The potential pairing continues an unlikely friendship between the pair, who butted heads significantly prior to Djokovic’s visa saga ahead of last year’s Australian Open.
During that saga, Kyrgios spoke in support of Djokovic, which sparked a positive uptick in the pair’s relationship
After the Wimbledon final, in which Djokovic defeated Kyrgios, the 21-time grand slam champion said the pair’s relationship was “officially a bromance”.
Djokovic elaborated on their dynamic in Adelaide this week.
“I wasn’t his favourite guy – let’s take it that way – for many years,” he said.
“But he was one of the very few that stood by me last year, and I respect that and appreciate that.
“In those moments you can actually see who truly supports you and who is by your side and who goes with the flow of the society and the pressures that media puts on you.
“He was giving undivided support in the moments where I was being challenged a lot, and him as an Australian, I respected that a lot.
“Since then, our relationship has changed for the better.”
