Nick Kyrgios' breakthrough and consistent winning 'would be incredible for tennis,' John McEnroe says

John McEnroe talked to Fox News Digital ahead of an LAFC soccer game in which he called the game with actor Will Ferrell.

Nick Kyrgios’ emergence over the last few months came as no surprise to those who have watched the Australian tennis star progress into one of the top players in the world.

Kyrgios finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon and followed that up with a win at the Citi Open in Washington and a quarter-final loss at the Canadian Open. His pre-U.S. Open tune-up will end with the Western & Southern Open later this week.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Nick Kyrgios reacts during his match against Alex de Minaur during the National Bank Open Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022, in Montreal. (Paul Chiasson/The Canadian Press  via AP)

While Kyrgios’ critics have pointed to his outbursts and unruly behavior during matches as a reason to brush him off, tennis legend John McEnroe said Kyrgios’ development and style are good for the sport.

McEnroe spoke to Fox News Digital on Saturday as he partnered with Mixhalo to team up with Will Ferrell to broadcast part of LAFC’s match against Charlotte FC. He had glowing words about Kyrgios.

"Nick’s brought interest to the sport for people that wouldn’t normally watch it and that’s sort of what you’re hoping for. The traditionalists are going to have their opinions as they did about me. He’s probably the most talented player that’s come out in the last 10 years. He’s had to deal with these all-time legends like (Roger) Federer, (Novak) Djokovic and (Rafael) Nadal – that’s made it tough," McEnroe said.

The American tennis legend said he believed Kyrgios was starting to break through some of the mental barriers he appeared to put up.

NICK KRYGIOS BEATS