Nick Kyrgios blames ATP balls for Novak Djokovic's ongoing wrist problems: "Really need to do something"

Nick Kyrgios blamed the ball change in ATP tournaments for Novak Djokovic's injury, which has left him struggling with physical issues after his defeat of 4-6, 4-6 against Alex de Minaur in the United Cup.

The 2022 Wimbledon finalist once again criticized the ball changes that occur throughout the year in various tournaments. This issue has been a subject of criticism in both the ATP and WTA for not prioritizing the well-being of players who are more susceptible to injuries due to the hectic tournament schedule and variations in ball weight and pressure.

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'Nole' acknowledged during the week in Perth that he felt some physical discomfort and is not at his 100%. This raised doubts about his health condition as he approaches the Aussie Open after suffering his first defeat in Australia since 2018. Serbia was eliminated from the United Cup in the quarterfinals after a loss to the home team led by De Minaur and Alja Tomljanovic.

"Change of balls every week finally got to novaks wrist 😭 the atp really need to do something about this problem. Players suffer all the time"

Nicholas Kyrgios

@NickKyrgios

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Change of balls every week finally got to novaks wrist 😭 the atp really need to do something about this problem. Players suffer all the time 🙏🏽

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"Ok for the noobs that think I’m taking credit away from Alex are just plain dumb. Demon is a hell of a player and deserves every success that comes his way."

Nicholas Kyrgios

@NickKyrgios

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Replying to @NickKyrgios

Ok for the noobs that think I’m taking credit away from Alex are just plain dumb. Demon is a hell of a player and deserves every success that comes his way.

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"Also, for the people who think balls aren’t a big enough factor to result in an athlete being hurt are potato’s. The load through a players elbow, wrist over this vigorous season is enormous."

Nicholas Kyrgios

@NickKyrgios

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Replying to @NickKyrgios

Also, for the people who think balls aren’t a big enough factor to result in an athlete being hurt are potato’s. The load through a players elbow, wrist over this vigorous season is enormous.

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Djokovic Returns in Melbourne

Djokovic concluded his participation in the United Cup with victories over Chinese player Zhang Zhizhen (6-3, 6-2) and then against Czech player Jiri Lehecka (6-1, 6-7, 6-1), in addition to the defeat against De Minaur. The 24-times Grand Slam champion also played mixed doubles against China alongside Olga Danilovic, overcoming Zhang, who partnered with the rising star Qinwen Zheng.

‘Nole’ will return to competition at the Australian Open starting on January 14th. The Serbian is the most successful player in the tournament with 10 titles and an impressive record of 89-8 (92%). Djokovic has won the last four editions he played (2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023) with a streak of 28 consecutive victories in the event

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