Britain's Jacob Fearnley hopes his experience of playing in some "pretty hostile environments" will prepare him for facing home favourite Nick Kyrgios in a boisterous Australian Open atmosphere.
Jacob Fearnley of Britain is optimistic that his experience in challenging environments will equip him to confront local favorite Nick Kyrgios in the lively atmosphere of the Australian Open.
At 23 years of age, Fearnley faces a significant first-round challenge in his debut at a Grand Slam tournament abroad.
The match is scheduled to take place at Melbourne Park on Monday at 19:00 local time (08:00 GMT) on John Cain Arena, which is the third show-court at the venue and is known for its ticketless entry, often resulting in a raucous crowd.
Fearnley has honed his skills within the United States college tennis system, recognized for its intense atmospheres, and he believes this background will be advantageous.
"I will attempt to disregard the crowd as much as possible," stated the Scot, who previously encountered Novak Djokovic in the second round at Wimbledon last year.
"Naturally, I have experienced some quite hostile settings. Perhaps not with as large an audience as I will face on Monday.
"I have certainly encountered some unpleasant remarks directed at me. The key is to overlook it and continue."
Kyrgios, 29, is making his return to Grand Slam competition following a prolonged absence due to a wrist injury that raised concerns about his career longevity.
The 2022 Wimbledon finalist is often a controversial figure, yet he enjoys considerable support from the fans in Melbourne, who consistently cheer for him with enthusiasm.
As Kyrgios steps onto the court for the first time since 2022, the atmosphere is expected to be charged with emotion and excitement.
"I am a great admirer of his," remarked Fearnley, who experienced one of the most rapid ascents in the ATP rankings last season.
"While some individuals may not agree with his actions, I believe he is beneficial for the sport. He boosts viewership and fills stadiums."
Fearnley has also removed Instagram from his phone due to the overwhelming number of messages he has received since the draw was revealed.
"I aimed to maintain my focus and composure," he added.
British eyes also on Draper, Burrage and... Murray
Fearnley is not the only Briton who will attract attention on day two at Melbourne Park.
British men's number one Jack Draper begins his campaign against Argentine clay-court specialist Mariano Navone on court three at about 16:00 local time (05:00 GMT).
Draper, seeded 15th, is looking to back up his run to the US Open semi-finals at the final major of 2024.
The 23-year-old left-hander has not played competitively since the end of October, having picked up a hip injury during the off-season.
In order to build up match sharpness, he practised against 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic and world number one Jannik Sinner last week on Rod Laver Arena.
"When I first came onto the tour, I remember putting my name down in Miami and no-one wanted to hit with me," Draper recalled.
"That is obviously a bit different now.
"It's really great to be able to spar with that kind of level of intensity and work ethic."
In the women's draw, British number seven Jodie Burrage returns to Grand Slam action against French qualifier Leolia Jeanjean on court 13 at 11:00 local time (00:00 GMT)
Burrage is using a protected injury ranking after missing six months of last season with wrist and ankle problems.
The 25-year-old contemplated quitting tennis because she did not know how much "fight" she had left.
Meanwhile, there is one more Briton who will be in the stands on Monday.
Former world number one Andy Murray retired from the sport in August, but has made a shock return to coach his long-time rival Djokovic.
Murray, 37, says he could not turn down the "unique opportunity" to help Serbia's Djokovic win a record-extending 11th men's title.
Another triumph for the 37-year-old Serb, who starts against American teenager Nishesh Basavareddy, will also be a standalone all-time record 25th major.
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