In a pairing that no one saw coming, five-time singles champion Venus Williams partnered with Nick Kyrgios to participate in the mixed doubles event at this year's Wimbledon, and the pair have been a hit after their first match.
Williams and Kyrgios defeated Austin Krajicek and Sabrina Santamaria 6-3 3-6 7-5, in one of the more entertaining matches on Court No.2. The duo entertained the packed stadium and although proceedings seemed light-hearted at certain points, Kyrgios revealed that he wanted to have more than just 'a bit of fun.'
“I just wanted to, not put on a good showing or anything, I really wanted to win,” Kyrgios said after the match. “Like, I’ve never really wanted to win a mixed doubles or a doubles match that much before. I was really trying hard.”
The Australian had high praise for Williams, and rightfully so as the 41-year old is a 16-time Grand Slam doubles champion. Although the match was played with some levity, Kyrgios admitted to almost losing his temper at certain points. However, Williams' calm demeanor and mental strength kept motivated him to stay focused, which enabled them to secure the victory.
“I was like getting so mad at like past points, things that were a bit unlucky and she was, like, I don’t even remember that," Kyrgios disclosed. "She has such a fast memory. I think that's one thing I actually have to take from her. When a point is done, she completely moves on.”
With this being the duo's first pairing, there is no indication of how far they can progress in the tournament. Chemistry doesn't seem to be an issue, although they might need to work on coordinating their post-match high celebrations.
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Nicholas Kyrgios and Venus Williams hugged after winning their first mixed doubles match, but Kyrgios left her hanging on the high-five afterward. ♥️😂
(📽️: @Wimbledon)