Fans have rallied behind Nick Kyrgios after the tennis star revealed the loss of his beloved grandmother.
Kyrgios took to Instagram to announce the devastating family news on Tuesday, May 16 in a fitting tribute that featured several photos of his beloved grandmother.
“Seems like I can’t catch a break right now…… RIP Yiayia, the best we could ask for. Go enjoy your time with Papou now,” he wrote.
Friends joined fans in offering their condolences and messages of support to the 28-year-old and his family.
“Sending love and thoughts to the family,” one person wrote.
“Condolences to you and yours.”
“Hey guys.. so sorry to hear.. a remarkable loving & happy go lucky lady.. @xkyrgios @k1ngkyrg1os your so lucky to have her in your life & she would be standing high above your heads very proud of you all.”
“Stay strong bro!! You made her proud,” another commented.
“She lives on through you and the family my bro. Always remember her cheeky, playful spirit. That’s what she would want.”
The devastating news comes as Kyrgios was forced to withdraw from the upcoming French Open due to injury.
The French Tennis Federation confirmed Kyrgios’ absence from Roland Garros after he was unable to recover from knee surgery in time for the tournament.
Kyrgios’ agent Daniel Horsfall had earlier revealed that it was “not looking likely” that Kyrgios would be able to compete.
“We are trying everything we can to have Nick ready on court as soon as possible,” Horsfall told The Sydney Morning Herald.
Kyrgios’s injury woes also forced the sporting star to withdraw from the Australian Open earlier this year, leaving the tennis community in a state of shock.
A “devastated” Kyrgios made the announcement regarding his decision to step away from the competition to reporters at Melbourne Park on Monday, January 16, declaring that a knee injury was preventing him from competing.
“(This is) one of the most important tournaments of my career. Hasn’t been easy at all,” Kyrgios told reporters at the time.
“I’m obviously extremely disappointed.
“That’s life. Injury is a part of the sport. I guess I can draw some inspiration from someone like Thanasi (Kokkinakis) who has had a bunch of injuries and has bounced back.
“I’m not doubting I will be back to my full strength and playing the tennis I was playing prior to this event. I’m devastated obviously. It’s my home tournament. I’ve had some great memories here. Obviously last year winning the title in doubles and playing the best tennis of my life probably.
“Then going into this event as one of the favourites, it’s brutal. All I can do now is just look forward, do what I need to do and come back.”