It’s the moment of truth for Nick Kyrgios, the moment that has promised his undeniable potential for so long.
The Australian firebrand is in the final of a grand slam for the first time and it is the big one on the immaculately manicured lawns of Wimbledon.
He will take on one of the all-time greats, Novak Djokovic, in what is the Serb’s 32nd Grand Slam final.
Here’s everything you need to know.
How did Nick Kyrgios get into the final?
Kyrgios has had a typically eventful tournament as he advanced to his first major final.
The 27-year-old, who regularly berates himself and everyone who crosses his path, has made his way through the tournament.
This most combative performance came against fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the third round, after which the Greek star accused Kyrgios of bullying.
With Rafael Nadal’s withdrawal from the semi-final match, Kyrgios has been able to put his feet up since beating Cristian Garin in the quarter-final.
Is that a good thing? Certainly from a fatigue perspective.
On the other hand, it meant there was no outlet for Kyrgios’ nervous energy aside from the practice field, leaving the Aussie alone with his thoughts for the biggest game of his life.
Only time will tell if that will become a problem.
How was Novak Djokovic?
Novak Djokovic has had a relatively easy path to his eighth Wimbledon final.
Apart from his quarterfinal against Jannik Sinner, placed tenth, where he lost the first two sets before making an exciting comeback.
Djokovic also dropped sets against Kwon Soon-woo in the first round, Tim van Rijthoven in the fourth round and Cameron Norrie in the semifinals.
Far from looking vintage, the 35-year-old is always a threat at every event he plays – not least at Wimbledon, where he has won six singles titles.
Who is going to win?
Novak Djokovic has the pedigree to fall back on, but he doesn’t have a great record against Kyrgios in their head-to-head matches.
In fact, Djokovic has never beaten Kyrgios in their two previous encounters.
He has never taken a set from the Australian, or even broken his serve.
Djokovic said during the week that he was not surprised that Kyrgios made it to the final, adding that his play made him a danger on grass.
“We always know how dangerous he is – especially on grass – because of his game, because of his attitude on the pitch, his confidence, just going for it and being a very complete player,” said Djokovic.
“When you look at his career, the best tennis he’s played has always been against the best guys. That’s why we all respect him, because we know what he can come up with.”
“So it’s no surprise to me that he’s there either.”
If Kyrgios can continue his phenomenal punch in the final and not let the opportunity come to him, then he could have a real chance of causing a shock.
What time is the men’s final at Wimbledon?
The final kicks off at 11 p.m. AEDT.
How can I watch?
The match will be broadcast live on Channel 9 and Stan Sport from 11pm AEST.
Can I listen to the radio?
Yes, that’s possible!
You can listen to the final on Australiabusinessblog Local Radio in all states (except Sydney Metro) on your analog radio.
You can listen anywhere on Australiabusinessblog Sport Digital.
You can also follow the action in our Australiabusinessblog Sport live blog.
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