‘It gets in Rafa’s head’: The controversial weapon giving Kyrgios an edge

It’s rattled world No.1 Rafael Nadal and Nick Kyrgios believes his controversial serving weapon can give him a mental edge over rivals before they step on court.

Nick Kyrgios’s underarm serve has opponents second-guessing themselves. Picture: William West/AFP

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Nick Kyrgios believes his controversial underarm serve has become the perfect weapon to rattle opponents on and off the court.

After stumping Brit Cameron Norrie with the trademark serve earlier this morning, the Australian said he’s not removing the shot from his playbook anytime soon.

“If it gets in Rafa’s head, then it’s a success,” Kyrgios said.

“I think any time in a match where the opponent stops thinking about what he needs to do and starts focusing on external things like that, I think I’ve got an edge straightaway.”

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Nick Kyrgios’s underarm serve has opponents second-guessing themselves. Picture: William West/AFP

The world No.29 said Australia is thriving in the team format of the tournament and that he’s relishing the chance to spend time with De Minaur.

“I kind of look at him as my little brother in a way. I just try and be a good influence on him whenever I can when I’m around him, and I think he feeds off my energy a little bit,” Kyrgios said.

“But I love watching him play, and I think all of Australia do. He had a great year last year, and I think it’s only going to get better for him. The things he can do in this sport are pretty special, I think.”

Nick Kyrgios is unbeaten in the ATP Cup. Picture: AP/Steve Christo

With just 11 days until the Australian Open kicks off, Kyrgios said his no.1 focus right now is winning games for Australia in the ATP Cup.

“I’m not even thinking about the Australian Open or what time of the year it is … I’m just doing whatever I can and whatever I can do in my power to get the best out of the team and myself. That’s all I’m thinking about at the moment.”

Kyrgios said he was boosted by his Aussie teammates, who were cheering just metres from the baseline from the team zone.

“I felt it. You know, they were all having their input. I really enjoyed it. It was awesome” Kyrgios said.

Originally published as ‘It gets in Rafa’s head’: The controversial weapon giving Kyrgios an edge