Thanasi Kokkinakis’ Return to the Laver Cup

Thanasi Kokkinakis is making his Laver Cup comeback, seven years after participating as an alternate for Team World in its inaugural event in Prague in 2017. In Berlin, the Australian is keen to secure his first points for Captain John McEnroe’s squad.

Arriving in Germany ranked world No.78, Kokkinakis brings momentum with recent victories over notable players. Last week in the Davis Cup, he defeated Jakub Mensik and Arthur Fils. He also overcame Team Europe’s Stefanos Tsitsipas in the US Open’s opening round and triumphed over Gael Monfils in Montreal.

Kokkinakis made waves at Wimbledon by eliminating Felix Auger-Aliassime in the first round and ousted Alexei Popyrin at Roland Garros, who famously defeated Novak Djokovic at the US Open. He nearly bested Taylor Fritz, leading by two sets before falling in five at Roland Garros, and edged out Sebastian Ofner in a tough five-setter at the Australian Open.

Demonstrating his formidable serve, he secured wins against Dan Evans and Jack Draper in Los Cabos, Mexico, won over Marcos Giron at Indian Wells, and bested fellow Australians Max Purcell and Aleksandar Vukic in Washington D.C.

Kokkinakis expressed his enthusiasm for the Laver Cup, reminiscing about his time as an alternate in Prague. “It’s a sick event,” he said, describing the unique atmosphere and iconic all-black court that has fueled its rise in popularity. He admitted his delight at being given the chance to play. “I’m not turning this down,” he stated, eager to compete alongside world-class players at such a prestigious tournament.

Acknowledging Team Europe’s support in the Uber Arena, Kokkinakis anticipates a special atmosphere. “I think the atmosphere will be pretty special,” he noted.

For Kokkinakis, the Laver Cup’s team-oriented format is key. “Every point is important,” he emphasized, underlining the decisive nature of the tournament’s final day. His strategy relies on causing upsets and drawing strength from the camaraderie among teammates. “I like having a bit more fun with my mates on the sideline,” Kokkinakis said, highlighting his connection with fellow players as a source of motivation.

At the Laver Cup, Kokkinakis aims to reprise his role as the “glue guy,” someone who fosters team synergy through communication and encouragement. Whether in singles or doubles, he plans to be a supportive resource, open to discussion and ideas, to elevate team spirit. “I love having fun and hopefully just trying to make everyone feel good,” he said.

Reflecting on his history with Captain John McEnroe, Kokkinakis recalled their practice together in Adelaide at 14 during the World Tennis Challenge. He praised McEnroe’s leadership in securing two Laver Cup victories for Team World against Europe’s consistently strong lineup. “What better guy to lead the team?” he concluded.