Nick Kyrgios calls Roger Federer "the ultimate role model."
The reigning Australian Open champion says the enigmatic Kyrgios must answer one key question to fulfill his vast potential: How badly does he want to be a winner?
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In an exclusive interview with The Age, Federer said he's "tired" of answering questions about Kyrgios and said Kyrgios' career success will ultimately hinge on desire and discipline.
"I get asked every time and I’m tired of answering the question," Federer told The Age."I like Nick, look at the end of the day and I think he’s a wonderful player and he’s got incredible shots and he knows that, we all know that. It’s just a question of how much he wants it. It’s up to him to decide how he wants to go about it."
Kyrgios faces a brutal Australian Open first-round clash with former Wimbledon finalist Milos Raonic.
Schooled by Federer at the US Open in September, Kyrgios conceded he could learn from the 20-time Grand Slam champion.
"I think we're two very different characters," Kyrgios told the media after Federer's 6-4, 6-1, 7-5 third-round US Open victory. "I think, you know, just the way he goes about things. I could take a leaf out of his book. The way he behaves on court, you know, his demeanor, I could definitely take away.
"I don't want to change myself too much, but I could definitely take away things he does in certain situations. He's the ultimate role model to anyone who wants to play."
Kyrgios' comments echo remarks his mother, Nill Kyrgios, made to the Sydney Morning Herald after her son edged Federer in three tie break sets at the 2015 Madrid Masters.
Nill Kyrgios said her son grew up wearing "RF" gear and used to cheer for Federer because of his backhand and cool grace under pressure.
"Federer was it [when Nick was younger], mainly because of his backhand, but also the fact he doesn't lose his temper much and goes about his business," Mrs. Kyrgios told the Sydney Morning Herald. "Nick loves causing havoc that's all I have to say, he likes to stir the pot.
"The thing is he's got a lot to learn on how to control that. The linespeople may get it wrong, everybody makes a mistake. I don't mind him pointing it out and saying that was wrong, you should have watched the ball better, but don't keep carrying on about it."
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