Nick Kyrgios: This is the REAL reason I beat Rafael Nadal at Mexican Open
NICK KYRGIOS says simply competing hard was the key to his shock win over Rafael Nadal.
Mexican Open: Rafael Nadal is defeated by Nick Kyrgios
Kyrgios saved nine break points and three match points in the final set tie-break to stun Nadal 3-6 7-6 7-6.
It was the Aussie’s sixth career win against a player ranked in the top two in the world.
It was also the third time Kyrgios has beaten Nadal in their match-ups.
Speaking after the match, Kyrgios was asked how he was able to stay mentally tough and the 23-year-old opened up about his determination to battle hard.
Kyrgios said: “When I was down break points, match points I was just trying to focus on making the first serve and just competing.
“No matter if I won or lost today, I was extremely proud of the way I went out there and just competed.
“I was dealing with food poisoning all day. I was in bed with the physio, taking tablets.
“So to go out there and compete, let alone win, was special.
Mexican Open: Nick Kyrgios complains of feeling sick
“I didn’t really think about anything. I was just trying to make my first serve.”
Kyrgios came under attack from the crowd in Acapulco after a typically controversial display.
But he insists he thrives in big matches and great atmospheres.
“I love going out and playing the big matches,” said Kyrgios.
“It’s one of the best atmospheres that I’ve ever played in. You could tell the crowd was loving every minute of that match.
“That’s what we play for. To come to Acapulco, Centre Court, a packed crowd. They were never silent. They were cheering Rafa’s name, cheering my name.
“It’s a match I will never forget.”
Kyrgios will play Stan Wawrinka in the quarter-finals on Thursday.