Canberra star Nick Kyrgios believes he can match it with the best players in the world as he targets a top 100 spot and a wildcard at the Australian Open.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Kyrgios will make his comeback from an elbow injury when he represents Canberra Velocity in the Asia-Pacific Tennis League at North Woden this weekend.
The teenager was announced on Friday as a finalist for the Tennis Australia Newcombe Medal with Lleyton Hewitt, Bernard Tomic, Sam Stosur, Ash Barty and Casey Dellacqua as the other contenders.
The former junior world No. 1 has relocated to Melbourne ahead of his second season on the pro tour, with the aim of improving his world ranking of 187 and playing at all grand slam tournaments next year.
Having jumped 651 spots this year, his rookie season on tour, Kyrgios is setting his sights high.
''It would be a dream to play in my home grand slam … but I'm honestly not sure what could happen with the Australian Open,'' Kyrgios said.
''The next goal I've got is making the top 100 and then take it further from there.
''To be playing in the Australian Open, if I'm lucky enough to, it would be a great opportunity for me.''
Having played at the French and US Opens this year, as well as making his Davis Cup debut, the teenager is being touted as a player capable of resurrecting the sport in Australia.
''Nick can beat guys in the top 100 and, with the right draw at the Australian Open, he can win matches,'' former Australian player Todd Woodbridge said.
''He's got a big serve and a big forehand, but the biggest thing for him is that he's not scared. You can't teach that.
''Nick isn't afraid to win, he goes for it and he makes it. In this game you have to believe in yourself and Nick's got a lot of belief and flair.''
Kyrgios, 18, is preparing himself for a match against former Australian Davis Cup player Sandon Stolle in the Asia-Pacific Tennis League.
The Australian Open boys champion could also line up against former junior star Todd Reid.
Kyrgios is using the matches as part of an intense seven-week training block to get him in peak condition for the Australian summer.
He has been granted a wildcard for the Brisbane International in January and could line up against one of his heroes, Roger Federer.
''It's pretty full on at the moment. I barely see my parents and brother and sister, that's not ideal,'' Kyrgios said.
''I've only been at home for four weeks of this year and that's tough. But it's a life goal and what you sacrifice to get there.
''If you've got the discipline, drive and do the hard work, the rewards are limitless.
''There will be a lot of top guys in Brisbane and I'm ready to take it to them.
''But there's still a lot of work I've got to do on my game and I need to stay on track.''
The Velocity men's and women's teams will play on Saturday and Sunday at the newly renovated North Woden courts.
The Australian Open trophies will be on show as well as the Hot Shots competition for children, speed serving competitions and cardio and fitness tennis.
■ Asia-Pacific Tennis League: Saturday - Canberra Velocity men v Stanmore Wyverns, Canberra Velocity women v City Lizards. Sunday - Canberra Velocity men v Macquarie Uni Warriors, Canberra Velocity women v Sydney Uni Lions.