Kyrgios: Zverev Already on Djokovic Level

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Kyrgios: Zverev Already on Djokovic Level

The generation gap could be closing on the Big Four.

Nick Kyrgios, who has scored successive impressive wins over Alexander Zverev and five-time champion Novak Djokovic en route to the BNP Paribas Open quarterfinals, says the 19-year-old German’s level of play is already comparable to the world No. 2—and on his best day Zverev can potentially exceed Djokovic.

Watch: Previewing Kyrgios vs. Federer Quarterfinal

“I played Zverev a couple days ago and I thought the level was incredible. The level is not that different, I don't think,” Kyrgios told the media in Indian Wells. “You know, it's just about being able to bring that every single day, and that's what the top guys do the best.

“I think Alexander some days could play a higher level than Novak, but he couldn't bring it as consistently as Novak can. I think that's the main difference.”

After the 16th-ranked Aussie snapped Djokovic’s 19-match Indian Wells winning streak, the former world No. 1 said Kyrgios can be a Top 5 player if he learns to sustain consistency.

“He's not very consistent with his results, but, you know, he's coming closer to top 10,” Djokovic said. “He had his best year last year, so things are coming together for him. There is no doubt that he has a big game, and that game that he has can and should be for top 10, top 5 player.”

“So it just depends on him and his commitment to the sport. Obviously it's not only about the game. It's many things that have to fall in place.”

Photo credit: Gerry Weber Open

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