Nick Kyrgios. The talented 20-year-old was cool, calm and collected as he eased his way into the second round of this year's Wimbledon tournament. He enjoyed what was a commanding display over non-seeded Argentinian, Diego Schwartzman. He raced into a two-set lead over his opponent, and although Diego put up a valiant fight in the third and final set, it was not enough against a promising youngster with a lot of pressure and potential to fulfill in the coming years.
Having recorded 32 winners and 12 aces, Kyrgios secured his place in the next round of the competition in just an hour and twenty five minutes - where he'll have a challenge on his hands against Juan Monaco in his next encounter. The controversy however, was not over his tennis. No, it was over what was said during his match, where he audibly said the words "dirty scum" as well as reportedly refusing to play until the rules official judged a line call, which went against him in the second set.
Not a fan favourite, to say the least
Kyrgios had this to say, on his performance and how he's feeling at the moment: "I've had a bit of a sinus infection and haven't played much, but I'm getting better. I started unbelievably and hardly missed a ball in the first two sets - I'm feeling confident."
Headlines are beginning to emerge as Nick appears to have somewhat of a bad-boy reputation, given the fact that he's been involved in some controversy over the past year or so. However, regardless of what the critics think of him, it's clear to see that he should ignore it and ensure it does not affect him - otherwise it could have a knock-on effect on his tennis as a result, especially in the knowledge that everyone is judging him and waiting for him to make a mistake to pounce upon.
Bad-boy reputation, but his tennis is impressive
The world number 29, who has famously beaten the likes of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer over the past twelve months, has developed a master of power and agility, two important strengths for every tennis player to have. Although he is yet to secure a Grand Slam title to his name, and is already being compared to the top few players given his impressive displays, it'd be unfair to suggest he does not have potential to progress as one of tennis' fast emerging talents.
The likes of Nadal, Murray, Federer and Djokovic are not getting any younger - Kyrgios would be an immediate successor, and as long as he stays consistent, there is no limit to his ever-growing possibilities.