Controversial Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios claims he could have beaten anyone but Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon final earlier this month.

Kyrgios lost in four sets to the Serbian 4-6 6-3 6-4 7-6 (3) in his first Grand Slam final after a dream but at times heated run to the showdown.

The 27-year-old looked in control early after winning the first set, before Djokovic took over and Kyrgios lost his cool on his way to a defeat.

In an Instagram question and answer session, Krygios conceded he needed to handle his emotions better going forward, but believes he would’ve won his first grand slam if not for facing Djokovic.

“Honestly, I feel as if my first slam final was impressive, next time I would try to ride the emotional wave a little smoother but I realise how much was on the line,” Kyrgios on Instagram.

“I feel if I was up against anyone else but Djokovic in the final with the way I served that day, I would of won.”

In response to a fan asking why he needs to be cocky, Kyrgios had a simple answer.

“People tend to confuse my confident for arrogance because they have no idea what I’ve been through,” he said.

It comes as Kyrgios and fellow Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis won their quarter-final doubles clash at the Atlanta Open, having withdrawn from the singles competition with a knee injury.

“First of all, I just want to say I’m extremely shattered that I’m not able to compete tonight,” Kyrgios said.

“I’ve won this tournament once and I’ve played probably some of the best tennis of my career. All I wanted to do was come out here and give you guys a show, obviously just see what I’m capable of.”