Netflix’s new tennis docuseries series Break Point begins with “The Maverick,” an episode about tennis superstar Nick Kyrgios.
But the show shines a spotlight on so much more than his Australian sports career, as the star also opened up about the mental health struggles he suffered behind the scenes.
Kyrgios opened up about his mental struggles
After making his breakthrough in 2014 when he beat then world number 1 Rafael Nadal in four straight sets at Wimbledon, Kyrgios is poised to be among the next generation greats in tennis.
The 27-year-old has won seven singles titles on the ATP Tour and reached the Wimbledon finals last summer.
But despite his success, in trying to beat old tennis stars like Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, Kyrgios revealed that he struggled mentally a lot in his career.
“My life was spinning out of control,” the star reflects on breaking point Documentary series. “Drinking every night.
“I was like, ‘Okay, I can’t keep doing this. ‘ I just had to be kinder to myself.”
“For my mental health, I can’t be one of those guys who plays all year round. I don’t think that’s healthy.”
Kyrgios has spoken about his struggles with self-harm in the past
He also explained that only recent intervention from his girlfriend Costine Hatzi saved him from continuing his “messy” opening years on tour, which included Suicidal thoughts and self-harm.
Kyrgios is known for controversial moments in the world of tennis, from breaking the Wimbledon dress code and dressing up as the Jordans to smash his bat and respond to blows.
“I lose my power over the little things that happen out there,” Kyrgios says in the docuseries. “I just got such a short fuse, it’s almost like a habit.
“In the heat of battle, I’m two different people. Sometimes I push boundaries, that’s just my passion, that’s my feelings.
“Millions of people are watching you not playing your best. Won’t you get frustrated and angry?”
Concerns surrounding Kyrgios’ physical and psychological fitness for the upcoming Australian Open have been mounting since the 27-year-old pulled out of Australia’s Fed Cup squad in the 11th hour last month with an ankle injury.
However, it has since been confirmed that he is fit to meet Djokovic in a friendly match, with all proceeds being donated to charity.
The Break Point Netflix series also has episodes featuring Novak Djokovic, Nick Kyrgios, and Serena Williams.