Nick Kyrgios had to retire from his first round match at the 2025 Indian Wells due to a wrist injury. He lost 7-6(9-7), 3-0 to Botic van de Zandschulp, who eventually defeated Novak Djokovic in the second round. However, the Australian is still active on social media and revealed his “favorite match” ever, which is one of his victories over the “Big Three.”
Kyrgios shared on his Instagram story a video of his clash against Roger Federer in the Round of 32 of the ATP Masters 1000 Madrid in 2015. “Favourite match of all time,” he wrote in the caption.
He won the thriller 6-7(2), 7-6(5), 7-6(12) in what was his only victory against the Swiss legend. Federer won all six of their remaining matches, including a semifinal clash in Miami and three encounters at the Laver Cup.
Against the other members of the Big Three, Kyrgios had memorable wins over both Rafael Nadal and Djokovic. At just 19 years old, he stunned the then-World No. 1 Spaniard in the fourth round of Wimbledon 2014. Overall, Kyrgios holds a 3-6 record against Nadal.
Nick Kyrgios after beating Roger Federer at the Madrid Open in 2015 (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
On the other hand, he is one of the few players with a winning record against Djokovic. He leads their head-to-head 2-1, with both wins coming in straight sets in 2017. However, Djokovic won their most high-profile encounter in the 2022 Wimbledon final.
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ATP Rankings: How things stand after Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev’s exits at Indian Wells
Is Nick Kyrgios retiring?
While Kyrgios hasn’t confirmed his immediate plans, he posted a cryptic message on TikTok after his walkover at Indian Wells. “Emotional night for me but I really appreciate everyone who’s helped me keep my head up. You know who you are,”he wrote. “Gotta let go of what was. You are a new person, a new player now.”
“It ain’t easy,’ but you have to enjoy whatever is left in this tennis journey. I’m a competitor, I always think I’m capable and always want to play my best,” he added. “But that also stems frustration and anger to myself. I have to be kinder – it’s a blessing to still be able to play this sport that has given me so much.”
Nick Kyrgios’ career highlights
Ranked as high as World No. 13, Kyrgios has won seven ATP Tour singles titles, including titles in Tokyo, Washington, and Acapulco. In Grand Slams (singles), his best result was reaching the 2022 Wimbledon final.
Meanwhile, in doubles, he won the 2022 Australian Open partnering with Thanasi Kokkinakis. He is best regarded for his powerful serve and aggressive shot-making. However, his career has been defined by injuries and inconsistent form.
