Published on 06:02 PM, January 27, 2020

Nadal weathers Kyrgios storm to make Australian Open quarters

Spain's Rafael Nadal celebrates his victory against Australia's Nick Kyrgios during their men's singles match on day eight of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne today. Photo: AFP

World number one Rafael Nadal weathered a fierce storm from gutsy showman Nick Kyrgios Monday to set up an Australian Open quarter-final against Dominic Thiem and keep alive his quest for a 20th Grand Slam title.

The Spanish top seed came through a riveting clash on Rod Laver Arena 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (8/6), 7-6 (7/4) to end the gallant hopes of the basketball-mad Australian, who came on court wearing an LA Lakers shirt in honour of Kobe Bryant.