Kyrgios hoping to do 'major damage'

World number 14 Nick Kyrgios is in confident mood ahead of the Australian Open and believes he can do "some major damage" at Melbourne Park.

Nick Kyrgios prepares for the Australian Open

World number 14 Nick Kyrgios is in confident mood ahead of the Australian Open and believes he can do "some major damage" at Melbourne Park.

Kyrgios reached the quarter-finals of his home grand slam two years ago and has declared himself fit and ready for Monday's first-round tie against Gastao Elias, after overcoming a knee problem.

"I've never been a player to play many tournaments before a grand slam. I like to come in pretty fresh," said Kyrgios on Saturday.

"So my expectations are high. I still feel like I can do some major damage and get to the second week and really cause some upsets."

Kyrgios was unable to make it past the fourth round of a slam in 2016, but enjoyed success elsewhere - claiming his first ATP World Tour title in Marseille before also winning tournaments in Atlanta and Tokyo.

"I feel like now I know what I can do on the court," added the 21-year-old Australian.

"Last year I was pretty consistent throughout the year. Won three titles. Got to 13 [in the world rankings].

"I feel more comfortable on the court. I know what my game is, I know how to play it. I know I can beat anyone on the day."

Should both men avoid surprise early exits, Kyrgios is in line to face Stan Wawrinka in the fourth round in Melbourne.