Nadal claimed the first set, outplaying Kyrgios in most measures, hitting more winners, and forcing more errors from his young opponent.

In the past, the Australian's biggest enemy has been himself, with his game deteriorating when the score is not in his favour.

However, this time after losing the first set, rather than crumble, Kyrgios stepped up to claim the second.

In a tiebreak for the third set, a glimpse of the old Kyrgios emerged, smashing a racquet, and dropping two points to give Nadal the upper hand.

Ultimately Nadal secured the match but not before Kyrgios managed to force a final tiebreak, keeping the match and the excitement alive a little bit longer for fans.

Earlier, Wawrinka and Medvedev played a thrilling match of their own, with the Swiss three-time Grand Slam champion managing an incredible resurgence from two sets down.

"When I enter the court, I enter to win. I know I have what it takes to do it. I knew it will be a really tough battle because he's a strong player," Wawrinka said after the match.

Two knee surgeries in 2017 threatened to put an end to Wawrinka's career, but his performance at this year's Australian Open suggests his previous form may be returning.

"I think last time I played so well was before the surgery. I think for sure, I feel since the off-season my level is really high," Wawrinka said. "Physically I'm moving better than last year. So I'm improving."

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