Nick Kyrgios handshake snub delights Australian Open crowd but Aussie plays it off
Pat Cash discusses Raducanu's chances at Australian Open
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Nick Kyrgios continued to enhance his reputation as this year’s entertainer at the Australian Open as he proved great value for money alongside doubles partner Thanasi Kokkinakis. The pair squared off against compatriots Alex Bolt and James McCabe in the first round, securing victory in straight sets.
Kyrgios and his partner won 6-4 6-2 to book their place in the second round.
The 26-year-old showman, who continues to divide opinion, has never been past the second round in the doubles in Melbourne.
Yet this time around, there is confidence his close bond and understanding with Kokkinakis could see the duo go at least one better as they target glory.
The two Australians had plenty of fun while securing victory and it wasn’t long before the fans could be heard laughing at the pair’s antics.
Kokkinakis jokingly snubbed his partner Kyrgios as he held out his hand for a handshake, but played it off by high-fiving himself much to the crowd’s delight.
That would set the tone for a relaxed showpiece as Kyrgios found it hard to contain his laughter.
He would later bust out some dance moves after winning a spectacular point with a strong backhand volley.
The umpire later asked Kyrgios and co if they had any questions before the current World No 114 came out with “who do you reckon does bigger curls than us?”
It was a reference to the umpire’s biceps and Kyrgios flexed his muscles on court.
“I’m not going to get into that,” the umpire replied, as Kyrgios flexed his arms.
Kyrgios also got off to a bright start in the men’s singles, beating Brit Liam Broady in straight sets, 6-4 6-4 6-3.
He will now take on US Open champion Daniil Medvedev next and the Russian arrives Down Under full of confidence following his triumph against Novak Djokovic in the US Open final back in September.
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