Nick Kyrgios explains United Cup withdrawal – ‘People underestimate the pressure’ and says ‘we all worked together’

Nick Kyrgios explained the reasons behind his 11th-hour withdrawal from the United Cup and believes ‘people underestimate the pressure’ that comes with preparing for a Grand Slam.

The 27-year-old had been suffering from an ankle injury sustained following an exhibition match in Dubai, and says the decision to prioritise his physical health took precedence.

“Anyone who plays professionally knows for sure,” Kyrgios told The Sydney Morning Herald about the preparation needed for a major.

“Anyone outside of that wouldn’t have a great understanding. Going deep or not, winning a match at a Grand Slam level is not an easy task. People underestimate the pressure and the nerves with being a part of one of the biggest tournaments of the year.

“Throw in an injury and knowing you didn’t give yourself the best chance only adds to the mountain of pressure you face. So, feeling good physically is important.”

Australia team captain Samantha Stosur revealed she had no conversation with Kyrgios prior to his decision to withdraw, but Kyrgios allayed any fears of skulduggery and said he had been in regular discussions with senior figures regarding the situation.

“I was in contact with Craig (Tiley from Tennis Australia) and Stephen (Farrow, United Cup tournament director) regularly about the situation,” Kyrgios explained.

“We all worked together to try and get the best outcome. Not everyone is going to understand or see it from my side and that is okay. What my team and I can control is how we go about our business and make sure who needs to know, knows – and we leave it at that.

“It is obviously very difficult. It’s not ideal to have an injury at any time in the season, but that is the risk I run every time I step on court. I was working every day very closely with my team about my progression and speaking with William, my physio, after every session. I tried to be ready for it, but at some point, you need to listen to the advice you’re receiving and do what is best.”

United Cup tournament director Stephen Farrow supported those comments from Kyrgios, and insists this year’s Wimbledon finalist was eager to compete.

“He left it to the last possible moment to confirm whether he was able to compete or not,” Farrow said.

“These things happen in tennis, especially when you’re two weeks out from a Grand Slam. This is a big event in its own right now.

“There’s $15m [US dollars] prize money and 500 ranking points. But as a player, you have to keep one eye on the Grand Slams. The fact he was here practising, he had every intention to play. Sadly, it’s not to be.”

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