Tennis star Nick Kyrgios has taken to social media to share a heartfelt message to his yiayia who passed away a year ago.
In an Instagram post that featured a photo of his yiayia holding a Neos Kosmos newspaper with the story of his and Thanasi Kokkinakis’ doubles title win at the Australian Open in 2022.
“This life is a roller coaster…. Last year on this day my grandma was taken from me. She was an incredible person and had a habit of making everyone feel included and made sure NO ONE ever went hungry, I try to be as generous as her with my care towards others,” he wrote in the caption of the post.
The 29-year-old also shared that today is his partner Costeen Hatzi’s birthday.
“As one door closes another opens…. Today is also the birthday of my beautiful partner… who somehow, against all odds has made it all make sense to me 🙏🏽.”
“I’m sure Yiayia would be proud of who I have become but also who I have decided to go through this life with ❤️ rest easy Yiayia, happy birthday beautiful.”
While external doubt has crept in about his playing future, Kyrgios said he isn’t done playing tennis and is aiming to return to the court.
He does however have his eyes on what’s next after his playing career is over.
In a recent interview with Forbes, Kyrgios spoke about the business opportunities he has lined up.
“Yeah, I mean I am still playing now so that’s the key to all of this,” he said ahead of the launch of his first design project, the Nick Kyrgios x Illesteva eyeglasses collection.
“I didn’t want to be done with tennis and find myself saying ‘What’s next?’ I learned great lessons from guys like Kobe [Bryant], LeBron [James], KD [Kevin Durant], Naomi [Osaka] to start thinking about business while playing and not after. That’s how you have the most impact.”
Having not played a major tournament since the US Open in 2022, the fan favourite has become a staple behind a microphone, hosting the podcast ‘Good Trouble’ and providing commentary during major tournaments.
