Nick Kyrgios told everyone over 12 months ago that the drama surrounding Novak Djokovic was only going to make him better on the court.
Fast-forward to this year's Australian Open and that prediction came to fruition, with Djokovic claiming his 22nd grand slam title in brutal fashion, downing Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets in the final.
The 35-year-old dropped just one set the entire tournament - all the way back in the second round - before cruising past the likes of Alex de Minaur and Andrey Rublev on his way to the title.
Kyrgios told the media last year that Djokovic's legal battle could create a better version of one of the sport's greatest performers - and that's exactly what happened.
MORE: Tsitsipas lauds Djokovic as 'greatest ever' after Australian Open
“For the sport, we need him here...I just want it to end. I’m feeling for him now, it’s not really humane what’s going on" Kyrgios said.
“If he’s allowed to play the Australian Open, I don’t want any bar of him. I reckon he’s going to be pissed off.
“He’s going to be very determined to play well and stick it to everyone of what’s going on - and I don’t want any bar of that Novak.”
While it took a year to eventuate, Kyrgios was on the money and took to social media to remind Australia that this was their own creation, applauding the world No.1 in the process.
Haha I told you. We created a monster. Well done @DjokerNole …. Sat on my couch and enjoyed the entire show 💰🙏🏽 soak it all in….
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) January 29, 2023
He will get to 28 slams 😂 easy 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) January 29, 2023
the jacket with 22 on it is elite energy, haha I love it…. NEED MORE
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) January 29, 2023
An emotional Djokovic said after the final that this was perhaps his greatest triumph on the court.
“This is one of the most challenging tournaments that I have ever played in my life,” he said.
“Not playing last year, coming back this year. I want to thank all the people who made me feel welcome.
“There is a reason why I have played my best tennis on this court, in front of legendary Rod Laver. Thank you so much for being present tonight.
“It is a long journey. All my team and family knows what we have been through in the past four or five weeks and this is probably the biggest victory of my life.”
Djokovic has now drawn level with Rafael Nadal with 22 grand slam titles, with the great Roger Federer behind both men with 20.
