Nick Kyrgios has become the first athlete to sign up with Naomi Osaka’s new sports agency, Evolve.
The news was confirmed on Monday with the Australian becoming a part of the nascent agency which is co-owned by the Japanese four-time Grand Slam champion.
“Kyrgios embodies the types of athletes we want to work with at Evolve,” Osaka told sports business website Boardroom.
“He’s got an unmatched style, passion, and personality that is unlike any other in the sport. We have some big things in the pipeline for him that are very unique and pioneering.”
Osaka broke away from IMG just last month and announced her own sports agency Evolve, with longtime agent Stuart Duguid. Evolve describes itself as a multifaceted agency focused on brand partnerships, investing, creating athlete-owned businesses, and philanthropy.
Duguid called the fiery and controversial Australian the most talented and entertaining tennis player on the tour, perhaps making Nick Kyrgios a perfect fit for Naomi Osaka’s Agency.
The world number 45 happens to be one of the biggest draws in the sport thanks to the unpredictable nature of his antics and matches.
While his on-court theatrics take the headlines most often, on his day the supremely talented Aussie is capable of toppling any opponent.
“Love or hate him, you definitely can’t keep your eyes off him. If you go to any junior tennis tournament, you will see Nick’s influence,” Duguid said.
“For Gen Z and younger, he is absolutely the icon.”
Kyrgios, 27, won the doubles title at the Australian Open doubles in January and has six singles ATP Tour titles to his name.
