Paul McNamee hails Djokovic’s rare support role in doubles triumph with Kyrgios: “That was impressive”

Former Roger Federer’s coach, Paul McNamee, praised the strong form of Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios’ doubles partnership at the Brisbane International and highlighted Djokovic’s “supportive role” during the match.

The Serbian began his 2025 season with an unexpected partnership alongside Kyrgios, marking a triumphant return as they defeated doubles specialists Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies 6-4, 6-7, [10-8].

Djokovic and Kyrgios debut with thrilling doubles win

Kyrgios was making his comeback to the court after two seasons with only one match played, 18 months ago at the Stuttgart Open (a straight-sets loss to Wu Yibing). This was their first doubles collaboration, and they did not disappoint, despite primarily competing in singles on the Tour.

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Nonetheless, Djokovic had a partner with strong doubles credentials by his side. Kyrgios won the 2022 Australian Open doubles title with compatriot Thanasi Kokkinakis, and the pair even competed at the ATP Finals that year.

The duo Djokovic - Kyrgios excelled, dominating with their serves throughout the first set and most of the second, where a shaky tiebreaker prevented them from sealing the match in straight sets. In the third-set super tiebreak, they showed their class to secure the win [10-8].

After their much-anticipated debut, McNamee shared his thoughts on social media following the match played at the Pat Rafter Arena, the tournament's main court usually reserved for top singles matches. “Well, that was an impressive doubles performance by Nick Kyrgios after 18 months out. Backed up by Novak Djokovic, unusually in a support role, his showmanship & skills were on display … well played, guys.”

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Both players are set to make their singles debut tomorrow. Djokovic (No. 7) will face local player Rinky Hijikata (No. 73), while Kyrgios takes on the challenging Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard (No. 31), arguably the player with the best serve in the latter part of the 2024 season.

Recently, Djokovic announced his intention to play more tournaments this season after competing in only nine events in 2024.

“I’m looking to play more tournaments this year than I played last season, so hopefully my level will go up. Hopefully, I will win a few more tournaments and my ranking will go up to where it should be.”

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