TC Plus Match of the Day: Tsitsipas vs. Kyrgios, Washington D.C.

Nick Kyrgios and first-time doubles partner Stefanos Tsitsipas will face off for a spot in the Citi Open final on Saturday evening in one of the most exciting matchups of the 2019 season.

“I think we both maybe want to get to know each other a little bit better,” Kyrgios said earlier this week on his newfound doubles partner. “He’s one of the best players in the world at the moment.”

Now, the two will have the chance to really get to know one another, but as competitors trading on-court blows for the first time. While both players are prone to volatile highs and lows, each can turn up the heat with their shotmaking at a moment's notice. One can only guess what kind of fireworks might erupt under the lights in Washington D.C. during this blockbuster encounter.

(Getty Images)

While Kyrgios’ desire to win oscillates depending on the day, Tsitsipas brings his competitive fire every time he steps onto the court. Aside from a slippery water bottle, Kyrgios has kept his emotions in check this week, and his tennis has reaped the benefits. The Australian is yet to drop a set en route to the semifinals, but neither has Tsitsipas. With his quarterfinal victory over Benoit Paire, Tsitsipas will move into the fifth spot of the ATP rankings for the first time.

On facing Kyrgios, Tsitsipas said, "He's unpredictable. You never know what to expect from him. His serve I think is the biggest weapon in his game. I'm going to have to be careful of his shot selection, trying to execute and not play his game, play my game."

In the end, look for Tsitsipas’ hunger for success to outlast the huge-serving Australian in a match that promises to entertain.