Thanasi Kokkinakis is through to the second round of the Australian Open - but his post-match press conference delivered a rather awkward moment.
One of Australia's best hopes in the men's draw, Kokkinakis surged past Italy's Fabio Fognini in the opening round, winning 6-1 6-2 6-2.
The 26-year-old will take on British great Andy Murray in the second round, in what promises to be a blockbuster clash on Thursday night (AEDT) at Rod Laver Arena.
After the match, Kokkinakis was quizzed by a reporter who accidentally referred to him as 'Nick', clearly mistaking him for close mate and Aussie tennis megastar Nick Kyrgios.
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“Wow. That is firing, that’s you done,” he said.
“Off you get. I’m gonna can that. That’s s**thouse from you.”
Oh dear 😂 @TKokkinakis • @NickKyrgios • #AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/BaxTfvIJCO
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 18, 2023
All's well that ends well😆#AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/72RhGkP4r3
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 18, 2023
Kyrgios certainly saw the funny side, taking to social media to address the humorous mix-up.
Kyriakis https://t.co/JcyHaO3PiG
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) January 18, 2023
Kokkinakis was fantastic in his first round clash, but his opponent Fognini offered very little resistance.
When asked on whether or not he believed Fognini was 'tanking' in the match, Kokkinakis shut it down and suggested his career record proves he is the better player.
“I’ve played him three times and I’m 3-0, so unless he’s tanked every time, I’m playing good,” he said.
“I served well, I felt like I didn’t really give him many chances. I don’t know what he’s feeling or how he’s doing it, but he’s been in the top 10.
“Who knows, a lot of guys come in and out. If you look at some of the break points, there’s balls that people would be tanking on, wouldn’t run out and try hustle them back.
“I don’t really care to be honest whether people think he tanked or not, I’m through to the second round, that’s all that matters.”
The looming match with Murray will create a massive spectacle and a great opportunity for Kokkinakis to topple a legend in front of his home crowd.
The world No.159 is looking forward to meeting up with Murray, who he has formed a strong relationship with over the years.
“He was someone when I came onto tour that was always willing to give some advice when he thought,” he said.
“I practised with him a fair bit, I played doubles with him at Indian Wells, so we have a fairly good relationship.
“We get along really well. I actually really like him off the court. I remember watching him when I was younger thinking this dude looks moody as hell, he looks miserable.
"Then when you got to know him, he is actually a ripper bloke and a good guy.
“Yeah, put all that aside and give it a crack tomorrow...but someone I have the utmost respect for.”
