Tennis Champion Nick Kyrgios Opens Up On His Darkest Days "No one knew..."

Today, I'm honored to welcome celebrated athlete and seven-time ATP title winner, Nick Kyrgios, to the podcast. In this eye opening conversation, Nick reflects on balancing his true self with his "bad boy" media persona, the mental health challenges he faced under the spotlight, the emotional toll of success, and the scrutiny that comes with fame.
Throughout this episode, we unpack dealing with "haters", his brief beef with Drake, relationships in the age of social media, and the future of Nick's career in tennis.
What We Discuss:
00:00 Intro
00:54 Enjoying Some Time Off
02:00 Nick Used to Hate Playing Tennis
03:35 Misbranded by the Media
06:00 The Effects of Promoting Negative Content
08:25 Dealing with Mental Health in Silence
10:49 Getting Out of the Darkest Moments
15:08 How Hard Work Led to Wimbledon
17:04 People Only See the Anger
19:23 People Will Always Have Something to Say
22:56 Being Okay with Leaving the Game Behind
24:52 Nick Talks About His Injury
25:46 Would You Spend Time with Your Haters?
28:25 Playing the Character of a Villain
29:55 The Best Crowd to Play For
33:32 Who is the Nice Guy Nick?
34:59 Tennis Is A White Privileged Sport!
38:34 How Media Can Negatively Affect Your Mental Health
44:26 How Strong Boundaries Make Relationships Work
49:36 An Old Conversation with Drake
51:50 Happiness is Spending Time with Family
54:44 The Many Breakdowns that People Do Not Know
59:14 What’s Keeping You Busy These Days?
01:00:30 The Best Places to Visit
01:02:00 Regrets of Losing a Loved One
01:06:44 Learning How to Bounce Back Right Away
01:07:58 The Hardest Lesson You Had to Learn
01:12:05 How Stress Can Affect How You React to People
01:16:24 Why Would You Break a Racket?
01:19:14 Routine Consistency is Hard Work
01:21:15 The Struggle of Letting People Down
01:24:13 Nick on Final Five
Episode Resources:
Instagram / / k1ngkyrg1os
Facebook / / nkyrgios
Want to learn to coach like Jay Shetty? Discover how here: gtly.to/PMlHc6JZw

[@JayShettyPodcast.]

It's clear Nick is not the guy the media wants you to believe he is. Which revelation surprised you the most? I’d like to invite you to join this community and subscribe to the channel. By hitting the 'Subscribe' button, you're not just becoming a subscriber - you're choosing to make a positive difference in your life.

[@Noexcusespodcast]

(DRAKE) ***NEW ARTIST*** “LOVE DONT CHANGE” kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXOXkoloaLGokKcsi=ja65tn6bTDasd5aY

[@sudonim2261]

I had no idea he was going through so much struggle in his personal life from the media's portrayal as an underachiever... The Wimby final definitely should have convinced more people of his success within his career. I watched that tournament and everything really came together for Nick. I'm convinced of his success and I hope he reads this!

[@oatsgoats39]

media? the media didnt force him to act like a dick to people or chuck his racquet directly at a ball kid. media also covered his mental health journey. let's not blanket blame media for everything. it's a sorry situation he's went through but mental health is not an excuse to be an asshole to others, who might be having their own mental health struggles.

[@andrejmicovic7296]

This doesn’t excuse his absolutely repulsive behavior.

[@vanessaescobar1987]

​@@oatsgoats39THIS. He needs to take responsability and stop complaining and act like a victim when people call him out for his behaviour.

[@sportslover2356]

I've watched Nick playing, often courtside for over seven years, then read what the media said and showed. They destroyed him early. It was heart-rending for so many of us. He said, The tennis world used me - yes. I couldn't win - absolutely. They kept wanting to ban him for life. From age 20, just for swearing. I don't know if he realises how many millions of fans he has. So much damage has been done. BUT - Nick is now making sure that it must and can never happen again. Tennis must not do this to any other player. They've been served.

[@letoyajohnstone191]

I totally concur with you 💯. You just nailed it my darling ❤️

[@vickid3081]

Kyrgios bravely shares struggles, resilience, and insights. A must-watch conversation.

[@gabrielantezanarojas1261]

Of course men

[@deepikasubramanian4271]

This whole conversation looked like a regular chat with your neighbors. It was so alive and very comfortable to hear. A genuine conversation. Wow

[@letoyajohnstone191]

Which then makes it more realistic and relatable as compared to over edited reality TV shows. Thank you Jay Shetty 🎉❤

[@NoVAHouseHunterArlington]

NK has so much talent, I am grateful to have been able to watch him play, I have always felt so sorry for his mental pain, I wish all good things for him.

[@Delbzy]

Always been a fan of Nick. Whether he is doing good or bad things on and off the court, he gets absolutely rolled by the media here in Australia. People are quick to judge based on mainstream media narratives, he's a nice dude.

[@sportslover2356]

So far the media in Australia has replied skirting the issue and saying well fine, there's plenty more fish in the sea.

[@TheFourSatoshis]

Nick is the most talented tennis player on the Tour since Rodger, if he wanted to he would of won many grand slams but life isn’t all about tennis and happiness comes first. Big love Nick ❤

[@vedrangrubac]

Nick is original , very Intelligent and brave guy. He is human and very sensitive and deep down very emotional. The more you listen to him more you see a very loving soul under all that tough guy stuff. 🌞

[@Noexcusespodcast]

(DRAKE) ***NEW ARTIST*** “LOVE DONT CHANGE” kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXOXkoloaLGokKcsi=ja65tn6bTDasd5aY

[@kendrawatson662]

Nick makes men’s tennis so entertaining. I got to see him in person in Cincinnati at the western and southern open. I hope to see him back soon

[@stevemarra4459]

Fantastic to see nick do a few podcasts the last 6 months he really is a tip bloke. As well as an electrifying talent,

[@evelynkarkkulainen1784]

Truelly significant change causes imposter syndrome, but people don't understand how significant changes can cause mental mishaps. I am always happy to see Nick play tennis, especially his humor during interviews after matches.

[@ednasantos9490]

the most interesting podcast interview ever, Iam so appalled to watch his interview, I admire his tenacity in dealing with his emotional, mental issues to a point to give up his love of tennis , meaning he has figured out what is best for him to live the life in a happy space, There is always life after tennis. Kudos Nick , more power to you, BTW ,I love watching you on the tennis court , , so entertaining to watch

[@Dpkl88]

Just loved how he carried himself and gave such a new insight into the world of someone highly successful at such a young age! So thankful to him for sharing story raw and uncut ❤

[@KitKat_Omalie]

This was an incredible interview. Life changing genuine insight and inspiration. Thank you for opening up Nick. This will save lives.

[@fialka3374]

Nick, we love you here in UK! People actually can't wait for you to get back to Wimbledon this year! You will win a Grand-slam! We are here believing in you! Sorry to hear that you were suffering. We love you. 🤗

[@dubravkakostanjsek4843]

Missing Nick on the tour. Incredibly talented player. Please come back 🙏

[@evelynkarkkulainen1784]

I am first here to listen to my Son Nick. Bless you, my son. I love it. Be yourself. Don't allow the outside pressure take a better part of you.

[@gayleblake4482]

Had no clue who anyone was until yesterday😂 this person's honesty is refreshing and Jay,a delight!Need more channels like this in the world.

[@elisa-beary]

The honesty & openness you gave to this interview was truly so inspiring!! I’ve said it so many times I can’t even imagine having any type of ‘celebrity’ the last couple decades. Between media, social media, paparazzi, tabloids, having more opinions in our faces than we were ever supposed to, it’s become so little about sharing & appreciating someone’s craft. It seems so much of what you’re sharing here. It’s so sad!! This is one of many reasons at 29 I deleted all my social media & haven’t brought it back for 6 years.

[@mupetabobo9906]

Thanks Jay, I'm a fun of tennis and I'm so excited to get to listen to this interview. I have a lot of respect for the hardworking players ❤

[@markphilpottinsidesport]

So glad that he called out the Australian crowds........spot on in every way.

[@jupiterjanes]

Wow, the REALNESS in his story is so refreshing, what a wonderful interview! So much honesty and perspective on truth behind success... like many things in life, often change is bittersweet! Thank you, Jay and Nick, grateful for this interview!

[@jupiterjanes]

Also, this interview is the perfect example of why people need to have GRACE for people who are in intense and public spaces! I hope Nick keeps healing, he seems like such a great, authentic, aware and talented person!!

[@mamubs28]

I love it when people get real on this podcast, it´s the most refreshing thing to watch a human being talk about how sometimes it´s ok to feel like your blessings can become burdens and how it´s not mandatory to romanticize your job or profession to have a good life and a good income. Loved it. Thanks Nick :)

[@panterapatricia]

I’m glad you are still here, I have been a fan of yours since the first time I’ve seen you. Also, I loved when you announced the ATP finals, you were funny, intelligent, and above all kind and less biased. I’m a fan!!!

[@hellovagim]

Not a tennis fan and haven’t seen him play. But he got the breakthrough after his dark time. He realized he has nothing to prove and then found the purpose of giving with his gifts. Good for him.

[@monicacenteno4615]

Great conversation and sharing his experiences! So humbling and encouraging and got to know a stranger on a personal level! Nick you are where your at because of all the efforts and your gifts and hard hard dedication no matter what losers have to say! You are seen heard and felt!

[@fmtien]

"It's simple, but it's not easy." So true.

[@abuyileantoni5496]

Great one Jay as always.... Really enjoyed this chat and Nick is such a phenomenal human being, strong, resilient and genuine...

[@peterschaub9175]

one of the talented players ive seen, love to see him play. and even now i like his philosophy of life. hope to see him back soon ❤❤

[@cindyrobinson5667]

Thanks to Nick for sharing his journey so far. Enjoy watching his tennis matches

[@ioannis.kassimatis]

A wise man once told me.. you must be doing something right when many people hate on you.. so only worry if they stop hating on you NK. That means they made you change who you are. Be yourself and dont change NK. Been great to see you speak openly about so much. The people that really follow you get you. Thanks for the entertaining tennis and a wicked conversation here from NK and JS 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@emilijavidtmann7383]

Put hitler in this sentence and then we can talk

[@henry7330]

That was amazing. Conversation just flowed. Always appreciated Kyrgios as a tennis player, and cracked up at all the kids and adults trying to imitate his shots on the tennis court. At one point clubnight doubles was overflowing with imitators 😂 Seems like a great guy, more down to earth than many of us. "It's not that simple" when actually it i s just shows what hard work he has put in versus the talent we are all blinded by.

[@mariaforrest5691]

What humble and wonderful young man. I really didn’t know who Nick was but had a strong feeling he was raised by amazing people. Be proud Nick you had your Grandmother in your life because you are the man now because of her. God Bless you. Thanks for another great interview Jay.

[@Lena-cl6ye]

Always behind you Nick. Please forget the haters and keep playing. Love from Malaysia & Perth. ❤

[@nicolepaula2225]

Great interview. He went truly Deep and intense into his mind and soul.

[@chelseathomas7965]

I feel so sad hearing how the media and fans treated Nick, just want to send some love his way and thank him for sharing

[@christineclements4925]

Have always liked Nick as a player, now i love him as a person too!!! Great interview. You got this thing called life Nick!!

[@wrenbisson4760]

Wow!! I appreciate his honesty so much! He's so real!! What a great interview Jay! Much love! ❤

[@collinsfemmville1067]

I've always the tennis world is toxic to those who chose to do things their way and stand out , This interview will be remembered for a long time vindicating nicks as a better human being and tennis player as to what the mainstream media has portrayed him to be, You're an epitome of respect and admiration, FYI you're the reason I want to watch tennis now Nick, keep that in mind , Great interview Shetty, that's a job welldone

[@mkader2494]

Kudus to you Jay for bringing this side of Nick to the fore. I've loved him from that first moment he broke out onto the global stage defeating Nadal in Wimbledon. He has a great story that is not yet concluded. I hope that we tennis fans get to see much more of him.

[@bennyboi3360]

At a time when young people and especially males struggle with identity and self harm, its epic to see Nick talking openly about his mental health struggles. Legendary human on and off the court.

[@rileymartin22]

Kyrgios is the player on tour who keeps it the most 💯

[@Bestees]

Nick is always so genuine and although he may not always find right words to express his feelings or find right ways to express his emotions but he is genuine guy. The problem with critics is that they are projecting their own fears and insecurities through him and they will always be insecure because they never had a chance or never utilized a chance to prove their own worth... I also see him that he doesn't want to live out his life fulfilling others expectations and he is feeling exhausted of living upto other's expectations rather than tired of playing tennis.... Isn't it so bad that media and other commentators bring this upon such a feeling on a player who is genuinely good...

[@ioannis.kassimatis]

This 90 min interview didnt feel like 90 mins 👏 Just a great conversation between Jay and Kyrios. As a tennis fan and an ex-Canberra boy, been great to follow your career NK. This 'conversation' just seemed 'real'. I think this is JS's gift. He manages to achieve interesting and real conversations with most of his guests. Thank you NK and JS. Hope to see many more real convos JS and a lot more tennis NK.. or you should start a podcast yourself 👍🏻👍🏻

[@bsandhuk]

This was truly heartfelt, enjoyed every minute of it while doing treadmill ❤

[@user-yx6wi2xu9z]

Another brilliant interview Jay. 🙌🏻 I’m a fellow Aussie and have loved how you have show this side of Nick. Bravo to you Nick, proud of you 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@olgagittens4218]

Thank you for sharing this conversation, it was interesting and insightful. I’m a fan of Nick and enjoy watching him any time he plays. I hope he continues with his therapy and gets better and happier in his recovery. ❤from Canada 😊

[@sophiat2058]

This was actually great, changed my perspective on him. And Jay always great

[@warrenisaac5634]

I saw you in a totally different light when you joined the tennis channel team to do commentary for some matches at the year ending championships. Like you said, you are a totally different person of the court, like anyone else who is a different person when they get home from work. I wish you all the best going forward no matter what you choose to do!

[@maryallen9391]

Nick has been the best thing for tennis!

[@edwingoh4094]

wow ! at the right time just when i was thinking about kyrgois and came off from a new interview from 60minutes australia on djokovic

[@cpadurar]

I admired Nick from when he showed up in practice at Cincy with one racket, broke the string and continued playing, eventually hitting the ball with the handle. A year before he was 5-6 and 0-40 three match points down on Grand Stand, and smacked only first serves instead of second serve and won the match. He is the most talented guy ever, I have the guts to say even more talented than Federer. Nick with the work ethic of Big 3 could not be beaten in any slam.

[@MsFey]

ofcourse everyone needs that mental break but damn he is very talented and entertaining on the court am really hoping to see him play again.

[@thestarinthesky_]

He is so cute, attractive and handsome. 😍🥰Thanks both for sharing this valuable experience.

[@justroro.-]

It’s so funny, and maybe because I’ve never really dived into the comment section when it comes to him. Any time he’s playing a match, I watch it because of his art as a player. He can REALLY PLAY THE SPORT! I love how quick he is and his trick shots. I enjoy his passion and how he give his all. It pains me that this is how he’s being portrayed and for him to feel this way about himself. I love Nick!

[@sanjsurativideo]

So grateful for this episode 🙌

[@373axle]

What a phenomenal, insightful & unique interview from both men.

[@tanyam6811]

Pure ❤❤❤ Nick you are a gift to the world. Refreshing.

[@anneryan2563]

Its interesting that Jay interviewed Novak a few years ago and connected very well with him too. A lot less superficial and more authentic than many in sport. Nick comes across as very vulnerable here.

[@letoyajohnstone191]

Much love from Kenya 💕

[@nathanleung5592]

Another great podcast to end of this year well! All about the expectations discussed here…keep up the great work Jay 😊❤

[@angelatanurdzic7508]

Very honest and wonderful interview with Nick, thank You. ❤

[@AA-qb7ni]

He made tennis entertaining for sure but he is a great player and I really wish him the best when it comes to his mental health. He seems like a good grounded guy. It's not easy to talk about these things.

[@Noexcusespodcast]

(DRAKE) ***NEW ARTIST*** “LOVE DONT CHANGE” kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXOXkoloaLGokKcsi=ja65tn6bTDasd5aY

[@mr.clutch987]

There isn't going to be another nick kyrgios..this guy is unique.

[@letoyajohnstone191]

Correct 💯

[@Chris-yv4xg]

One of your best guests so far

[@atharbarghouthi9649]

This is a gem for sports psychology

[@scottydiazm9684]

Amazing both of you, inspiring, love it

[@jerseycampana1274]

Must watch! Jay, your podcast has been my safety haven, my life coach Lisa Haisha recommended your podcast and she's right, this is truly life changing💜

[@diadia1964]

Beautiful and honest interview ! Loved it !

[@beathard69]

You are a Nice guy Kyrgios. 😀👍 Awesome interview Jay. Thanks a lot. 🤜

[@VibrantMindPod]

Very genuine podcast. Thank you nick n जय for this candid conversation

[@Lightning-speed27]

Nick.. I am with the millions of others who are, always was and always will be in your Court. Wishing you every JOY and PEACE. What an incredible life journey you have had and how you have blossomed. With love and gratitude to you, a fellow Aussie. Stay true to your own inner knowings of who you are. Ignore the rest. SRI CHINMOY: What you do not use yourself, do not give to others. For example, advice."

[@gordanae5706]

Nick, people love you, and I wish you all the best. Novak D, if you are listening and reading this comment. Please invite Nick to Serbia and arrange some time to stay there and enjoy the hospitality. He deserves to say thank you to Nick this way. He showed who is he when Novak was prevented from playing in Australia. Thank you, Novak and family.

[@Noexcusespodcast]

(DRAKE) ***NEW ARTIST*** “LOVE DONT CHANGE” kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXOXkoloaLGokKcsi=ja65tn6bTDasd5aY

[@propgee]

@djokernole i agree please invite him

[@lengl1125]

What an insightful interview. As an Australian, I personally loved watching Nick win the AO Doubles in 2022 and was always rooting for him throughout. I had a feeling he was fighting his own demons, but like everyone, you never know what someone is going through until they share it. We should all learn to have more grace for people and pause before making judgments based on how the media perceive someone. I hope that Nick heals physically and mentally and whatever he chooses ro do, feel fulfilled. I think he would be great if he wanted to pursue a commentating career. It doesn't matter...just let the guy be and live his life as he wishes. ❤

[@vukforest223]

Fantastic guest,amazing interview.Thank you❤️

[@Mska07]

Wow I absolutely adored this interview 🤍👏🏻

[@user-lj4yt4yn6i]

Nick, we love you just the way you are ♥️ God bless you and keep you safe 🙏🏼 .. very nice to have a player like you on the tennis tours .. my respect, you are the best 🤗

[@nikol7951]

Excellent interview, thank you Jay!

[@undertaken101]

I've liked him from the start. As I listen he reminds me more and more of Nastase, another tennis rebel with a great heart. Congrats for inviting him, loved the talk👏🙏

[@AJAS2122]

Thank you for always doing this,your videos has had a great impact in my life,I wish you even greater success than this!,

[@luismonteiro4204]

Big Nick. Loved to watch him doing comments for EuroSport on Australia Open. All the best for you. Greetings from Lisboa, Portugal

[@gabrielantezanarojas1261]

I’m absolutely loving the video. Every single second.

[@Diamond_Motivation]

I love this!! It spoke to my spirit!! Let's get it done!!!

[@carlettagoodrich-mann1377]

What a great podcast. Jay your inspiring. Content encourages listeners.

[@user-zh1ih8jk6f]

Don’t know much about Nick but enjoyed his real answers.❤

[@quantum_man]

Nick's worked out that he's not just playing for himself but playing as role model for others and that he's Human. He can now finally take it to the next level. I always felt he could be number #1 in the world from the moment I saw him play. It take this level of emotional energy to win provided that it is tempered and held in check and then channelled into excellence. Mind MASTERY and channeling emotions is the other lesson. We dont have to convince others, we only have to convince ourselves 🙏

[@ktqureshi95]

Such a great interview!

[@Ngaba2008]

I love him and his skills ❤

[@destinedbykay4982]

Ever since I started my journey about two, or two and a half years now, Jay Shetty and “On Purpose” has been a constant in my day to day, week to week lifestyle. Thank you for these deep, wholesome conversations. Mark my words I’ll have my personal conversation with you one day. I put that out in the universe…❤❤❤

[@hormazhansotia5982]

NICK KYRGIOS IS THE MOST HONEST MAN ALIVE !

[@elisa-beary]

We’ll always look at our little sisters as our little tiny baby sisters. I can so relate to that Jay!!🥰

[@pamaerysovershares7373]

I first saw Nick in a random highlight reel, it was that backwards between the legs shot and I thought… who is that? I’ve been a fan since but I’ve also judged him and believed that he was capable of so much more if he was more professional and calm and dedicated. I generally admire the work ethic and almost superhuman mentality and ability of athletes and I just thought Nick lacked a bit of that. What I’ve learned with this interview is that athletes are human and Nick has shown a whole other side. He’s not trying to be like the top tennis guys, he’s Nick, he’s amazing, he does things his own way and there’s nobody like him. This was amazing

[@kaustubhsoni5158]

I was doing maths while listening to this podcast, and at the start, I was just about to choke listening to Nick. He is such an amazing guy, good things will happen to good people.

[@treewiseblood7911]

very authentic with a dear heart🙌🙏

[@drchicago5888]

Nick, unpleasant, negative outbursts in an event as huge and great and positive as tennis evokes negative, uncomfortable, and fearful emotions in others. Thus, the judgement and more negativity. But we also grow and become better, wiser, calmer. You went from unpleasant to now showing your true self, super freaking cool, talented, respectful, respectable, and fun to watch and listen to. ❤

[@manpreet9353]

First viewer Thanks Jay 🌺 ❤ Lot of respect from my heart. Your Thoughts & way of explaining concept is very helpful for me.

[@kinolima235]

🎉 Thank you 🎉

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

Love your video and keep it up

[@becedwards575]

I’m from Melbourne 🇦🇺 & love @NickKyrgios . I’m not interested in tennis but have always liked Nick and would only watch his games, now I know why! He does get a bad rep here 😞 but I’ve never taken any notice and it looks like my gut feeling about him being a good person (& wishing the media would leave him alone!) were correct ❤️. When you play in Melb again I’ll be there to cheer very loudly ❤️. Great interview @jayshetty

[@nedkrk4416]

Nick God bless you and your family,,,you are beautiful soul l wish you many many happiness and blessings❤❤❤