Tennis star Nick Kyrgios has made no secret of his adoration for everything basketball and NBA throughout his career.
The Australian is a huge Boston Celtics fan, and he is often spotted in attendance for their high-profile games.
Kyrgios also invested in an NBL team in his native Australia, where he is a part-owner of South East Melbourne Phoenix.
The star combined his love for tennis and basketball by comparing Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Novak Djokovic to NBA players.
Nick Kyrgios of Australia looks on during a practice session ahead of The Championships - Wimbledon 2023 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on June 28, 2023 in London, England.
Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
Nick Kyrgios compares Novak Djokovic to LeBron James
During the 2025 Roland Garros, Kyrgios compared the semi-finalist to NBA stars they shared similarities with.
Kyrgios said that Djokovic was most like NBA legend LeBron James, who is still playing professional basketball in his forties.
Kyrgios said: “The longevity, still doing it, nearing 40 years of age. Still being super relevant. Everyone knows who this person is and still messing with the young guys on tour.
Kyrgios said Alcaraz was equally as easy to find a player that most resembles him in basketball: LA Lakers star Luka Doncic.
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“For me, this one was also pretty obvious. This guy resonates Luka Doncic. When you think of Alcaraz and Doncic, you think of magic.
“Both these players were made for their sport. It just looks so easy to both of these players. They’re always smiling, having a good time, and they’ve got that quiet confidence about themselves.”
Which NBA icon Nick Kyrgios compared to Jannik Sinner
As for Sinner, Kyrgios opted for Miami Heat star Jayson Tatum, who won his first NBA Championship in 2024.
Kyrgios explained: “Next up, Jannik Sinner. Jayson Tatum’s a pretty good comparison to Sinner. Both had really early success.
“Obviously, Jayson Tatum winning a championship last year (2024). Jannik Sinner is already on three Grand Slams.”
Kyrgios has often used basketball comparisons to describe himself, having likened himself to Michael Jordan in 2022.
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