LAVER CUP Press Release, August 26, 2017

World No.18 Nick Kyrgios has stepped in for the Laver Cup’s Team World, replacing Milos Raonic who has withdrawn from the tournament.

Renowned for his power, precision and explosive serve, Kyrgios joins John Isner, Jack Sock, Sam Querrey, Juan Martin del Potro and Denis Shapovalov.

Captain John McEnroe is delighted to welcome the Australian to his big-hitting team.

“In Nick, you have an exciting young player who clearly thrives on a big stage and against the world’s best players,” said McEnroe.

“He’s as bold as he is talented and I truly expect him to shake things up.”

Kyrgios has shown he has the ability to find his best form against top names. On his debut at Wimbledon in 2014, the then 19-year-old saved nine match points against former semifinalist Richard Gasquet in the second round before a sensational upset of world No.1 Rafael Nadal on the All England Club’s famed centre court.

Now a three-time titlist on the ATP Tour, the Australian has since claimed multiple wins over Novak Djokovic and upset Nadal again as he progressed to his first ATP Masters 1000 final in Cincinnati. Currently ranked No.18, Kyrgios peaked at world No.13 in October last year.

The exciting 22-year-old has also thrived in Davis Cup, winning every rubber he has contested in 2017 to lead Australia’s semifinal charge.

“I love to draw on the energy that comes from being a part of a team and I can’t wait for the Laver Cup because I’ll be competing with guys who are also my friends,” Kyrgios said.

“When John McEnroe and I got together and he asked me to be on the team and showed such faith in me, I was delighted to accept. Playing for one legend in honor of another is not something we get to do often!

“And of course, as an Australian, it’s a privilege to compete at an event that honors Rod Laver. We grew up learning that he’s a hugely important part of our history.”