"There is a side to Nick few people see": Naomi Osaka stands by 'unapologetic' Nick Kyrgios

Naomi Osaka has stood by Nick Kyrgios amid recent criticism which has engulfed the former Wimbledon finalist who will return this week at the World Tennis League and then the Brisbane International in the coming weeks.

During an interview with Harpers Bazaar in which she discussed mental health and her own challenges with it she also discussed Kyrgios. The former World No.1 said that he is unapologetic and behind all the smoke and mirrors is a human that little people get to see.

Having spent time with him away from tennis and being friends with the Aussie, Osaka has seen that. Kyrgios has been criticised as he continues to be outspoken surround doping cases involving Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek.

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Sinner tested positive for the substance Clostebol but like Swiatek bore no fault or negligence. Albeit the Pole served a short term ban while the Italian has yet to serve any and currently won't unless the appeal changes the verdict. While saying that it isn't linked to either player and more the premise, he also showed a want to rile up the crowd.

He said that he 'would get every single person in the crowd to get on him' albeit of course he would be at home anyway so would get their support.

“Nick is a dynamic person both on and off the court. I am really drawn to people who are unapologetic about who they are and aren’t afraid to show all aspects of themselves," Osaka told Harper's Bazaar.

"I also think there is a side to Nick few people see, but I can say he has a very big heart and, for him, giving back is really important, and that is a quality I admire about him."

Osaka will return under new coach Patrick Mouratoglou at the ASB Classic in Auckland in January as she aims to rise again up the rankings in her second year back on tour.

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