Kyrgios: "I want to play as much as possible, winning money is my greatest motivation"

Diego Jiménez Rubio | 6 Jan 2026 | 10.27

Nick Kyrgios, importance of money. Photo: gettyimages

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It doesn't leave anyone indifferent, both on and off the court. Nick Kyrgios bid farewell to the ATP 250 Brisbane 2026 after losing to Aleksandar Kovacevic, giving one of those press conferences that go viral for what he says and how he says it. Honest, open, and unafraid of what others might think, the Australian detailed his injuries and his desire to continue being a professional tennis player.

If there's one thing to acknowledge about Nick Kyrgios, it's that he always speaks his mind and leaves captivating headlines in every press conference he gives. The Australian did it again, this time after being defeated in the first round of the ATP 250 Brisbane 2026. His statements will generate significant media buzz and clearly illustrate the current state of his professional career, hanging by a thread and it's a mere miracle that he's still active.

Here's what Kyrgios said after losing at the ATP Brisbane 2026

Difficulty competing after his injury ordeal

"I had my wrist reconstructed and underwent knee surgery twice. I will never be the same again. My body has let me down a lot and can no longer withstand the demands of competing at this high level. It's very challenging for me to go out and play, even on the practice courts, and that's not easy to accept. In 2022, I saw myself as one of the best players in the world, I stepped onto the court believing no one could beat me and winning a tournament each year. After the injuries, that feeling is lost, you can no longer believe in yourself in that way," he said.

"It's sad, but that's how things are. Some people think that after surgery, you return to the courts and everything should be the same, but that's not the reality in elite sports. Nevertheless, I must feel grateful for just being back to compete, I'm happy and proud of myself for that," he asserted.

Unavoidable physical discomfort

"I think people don't understand how physical tennis is, especially now, as playing conditions have slowed down, and you have to work hard to win points. It has been a positive month for me because I have been able to play several games and enjoy tennis in exhibition tournaments. I accept the defeats and any pains I may suffer on a daily basis," explained the Australian.

Connection with the audience and expectations for the 2026 Australian Open

"I'd like to play in Melbourne; I feel like I have the strongest connection with the Australian audience right now. It excites me to see young children watching me play, cheering me on, and getting hooked on this sport. I know I can continue to provide great entertainment; in fact, in my doubles match with Kokkinakis, I consider that we entertained the crowd more than all the other matches throughout the tournament. I want to keep playing as much as possible this year and do the best I can," argued Nick.

Money as a great motivation to stay in professional tennis

"One of my greatest motivations has always been to make money through tennis; I won't lie. My parents were not wealthy, and I'm not ashamed to say that if I continue to play, it's to earn money. I'm at a stage in my career where financial goals are the most important, which is why it has been great to play in several exhibitions this past month. I feel at peace with myself because I am doing exactly what I want," pointed out Nick Kyrgios, who could be one of the main attractions at the 2026 Australian Open.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Kyrgios: "Quiero jugar lo máximo posible, ganar dinero es mi gran motivación"