Four years ago, Nick Kyrgios received a wild card to play Indian Wells.
Making the most of his wild card, the Aussie defeated Sebastian Baez, Federico Delbonis, and Casper Ruud to reach the fourth round.
Then, Kyrgios received a stroke of luck, advancing to the quarterfinals when Jannik Sinner withdrew from the tournament.
Standing between Kyrgios and a semifinal spot was the legendary Rafael Nadal…
‘Do I tell him how to act?’ – Nick Kyrgios’ Ben Stiller remark during Rafael Nadal clash
Struggling against Nadal, Kyrgios heard one fan criticise him.
With actor Ben Stiller nearby, he responded in true Kyrgios fashion.
“Just relax,” he said.
“Are you playing?
“Are you good at tennis?
“Exactly. So why are you speaking?
“Do I tell him [Ben Stiller] how to act? No!”
The exchange drew a few laughs from the crowd and a smile from the Emmy Award winner.
Kyrgios fought hard but couldn’t come away with the win, losing to Nadal in three sets.
He’s only played one match in California since, losing in the first round to Botic van de Zandschulp last year.
Where is Nick Kyrgios?
Kyrgios isn’t playing Indian Wells this year.
But he is in the United States.
The Aussie recently took part in a pickleball exhibition event.
Many praised Kyrgios for his performances, suggesting he would be successful if he switched sports.
As he continues to spend time away from professional tennis, in part thanks to his injury concerns, perhaps pickleball may be the way forward for Kyrgios.
