Quote of the Day: Kyrgios knows how to "turn up" for the big matches 

Kyrgios Turns Up in Melbourne

Fans never know what to expect from the talented Nick Kyrgios, but in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena one thing is certain: the Aussie is going to put on a show. Melbourne Park is where he comes alive and plays some of his best tennis and this rang true on Thursday evening.

Going up against last year's Australian Open finalist and US Open champion Daniil Medvedev didn't scare the world No. 115, it motivated him. Although he came up short, he ignited the crowd throughout the entire match but especially after forcing Medvedev to a fourth set. His 6-7 (1), 4-6, 6-4, 2-6 loss was entertainment at its finest. He may not be a major champion, but his effort and love for his fans is legendary.

In the press room following the affair he spoke about his performance the only way he knows how, straight up with a little attitude.

"We all know, people can doubt me as much as they want but they know I'm going to turn up and show up for matches like this," he told press. "That's why the crowd is the way it is, that's why the tickets are the way they are, that's why the views are the way they are. It all speaks for itself.

"No matter how little I train or how much I play, I'll always lift for matches like this. I'm not going to shy away from it. Obviously I'm not happy with drawing Daniil Medvedev second round because my ranking slipped. If I play 95% of people tonight on that court I think I win, to be honest with you."

One can't really disagree with the 26-year-old, the night match was completely sold out. However, because of COVID the stadium was only filled to 50% of its capacity.

The 2015 AO quarterfinalist struck 47 winners and hit 17 aces compared to Medvedev's unbelievable 68 winners, which included 31 aces. What's next for Kyrgios? Well he's still going strong with countryman Thanasi Kokkinakis in doubles, but the two will have to bring their A game as they face No. 1 seeds Mate Pavic and Nikola Mektic on Friday.

He's also scheduled to play Dallas next month.