Nick Kyrgios met NBA star Kevin Durant after competing in the DC Citi Open doubles event alongside Gael Monfils, marking a significant highlight in the tennis player’s recent comeback. Kyrgios had last competed at the Miami Open, where he was defeated by Karen Khachanov in the second round, signaling ongoing challenges in his return to form.
Since a 2023 injury plagued period, Kyrgios has undergone several surgeries and extensive rehabilitation. His return to professional tennis came at the 2025 Brisbane International, where he teamed up with Novak Djokovic in men’s doubles, securing a three-set victory before a packed crowd.
Despite efforts to regain momentum, a major wrist reconstruction interrupted Kyrgios’s progress, leading to a string of disappointing results. At the DC Citi Open in 2025, he and Monfils faced Hugo Nys and Edouard Roger-Vasselin but fell in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, dampening their campaign.
The event, however, presented a unique opportunity for Kyrgios and Monfils to meet Durant, a two-time NBA champion and four-time Olympic gold medalist now playing for the Houston Rockets since the 2025 season.
“Bro there are levels to this”
— Kevin Durant, NBA Legend
Kyrgios, currently ranked as high as No. 13 in ATP singles and a seven-time ATP Tour singles title winner, also secured a doubles title at the 2022 Australian Open. Beyond tennis, he has contributed as a commentator for ESPN and BBC during his injury recovery period in 2024.
Kyrgios Offers Insight on Carlos Alcaraz’s Grand Slam Prospects and Playing Style
While Kyrgios has struggled with on-court success following 2022, he remains a vocal figure in tennis circles due to his candid opinions. Recently partnered with Serena Williams’ former coach Patrick Mouratoglou, Kyrgios shared his perspective on Carlos Alcaraz, reigning French Open champion and a rising figure in the sport.
“Alcaraz is a joke right now. That’s what I say. I think he’s got a bit of Nadal, Federer, and Novak, he’s got all three. He plays like Federer a little bit, physicality of Nadal, and then he’s got that confidence like Novak. Like, I think he could get 15 Slams.”
— Nick Kyrgios, Professional Tennis Player
Kyrgios’s candid remarks reflect his belief in Alcaraz’s potential to dominate future slam tournaments by combining the best elements of tennis legends Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic in his playing style.
Personal Life and Recent Developments
Off the court, Kyrgios ended a four-year relationship with Australian influencer Costeen Hatzi in March 2025. The couple was often seen together at various tennis events and public appearances, with Hatzi regularly supporting Kyrgios during his matches.
Looking Ahead: The Importance of Kyrgios’s Return and What to Expect
Kyrgios’s journey back into competitive tennis, culminating in his recent encounters and high-profile meetings such as with Kevin Durant, underscores his determination to overcome injuries and recapture his elite status. His outspoken views on players like Carlos Alcaraz add intrigue as the tennis world approaches the US Open, where expectations for both established stars and emerging talents will be tested.
As Kyrgios continues to regain form, his collaboration with veteran coaches and influential figures highlights his commitment to refining his game. Fans and analysts alike will closely watch how his physical readiness and confidence evolve through the upcoming season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Kevin Durant ever scored 50?
A. During the lockout-shortened 2011–12 season, on February 19, Durant scored 51 points for his first career 50-point game, playing against the Denver Nuggets.
Q. Is Kevin Durant a billionaire?
A. Kevin Durant’s wealth is valued at $75 million, according to AfroTech’s earlier report.