Nick Kyrgios continues to make headlines as the “bad boy” of tennis. The 24-year-old was recently fined for unsportsmanlike conduct during the Cincinnati Masters. The Australian player insulted an umpire and smashed two tennis rackets during a match. He would receive a hefty fine of $167,000 Aus dollars, the largest amount fined to a single player. When asked about the fine during the US Open, he made some controversial remarks, calling the ATP corrupt. His comments are currently under investigation by the tennis body.
Should be suspended
Nick’s behavior had led to criticism, especially by former players from his own country. Australian tennis legends Rod Laver and Pat Rafter had advocated for the suspension of the 24-year-old. They felt that Kyrgios conduct and recent controversial comments warranted heavier punishment. Rafter, who has previously worked with Kyrgios in past Davis Cup tournaments had expressed his surprise that the ATP had not suspended the talented but unpredictable player. “On paper, it looks like he should be suspended. It’s an interesting one, I don’t understand why it hasn’t happened.” The 46-year-old quit the captaincy of the Australian Davis Cup team in 2015, highlighting Kyrgios stubbornness as one of his reasons.
Everywhere I play it’s sold out. KYRGIOS
Rafter’s remarks have not gone unnoticed by Kyrgios who has clapped back at the two time Grand Slam winner with whom he shares a strained relationship. On his Twitter account, he reacted to Rafter’s comments and called him unsupportive of Aussie players. “Probably because everywhere I play the stadiums are sold out, and the event makes money with me around? Not surprised Rafter has commented on this topic, the guy loves hanging fellow Aussies out to dry. Enjoy staying relevant champ.”
Kyrgios is one of the most popular players in the world and is often a big draw when he plays. Rafter had acknowledged this fact but felt that it probably made Kyrgios go unpunished despite his misconduct. “At what point do you say a crowd’s more important – or do you try to uphold a certain protocol and a standard for the players to adhere to.” Kyrgios is set to feature at the Laver Cup. He has said he is happy and looks forward to playing at the tournament. “It’s obviously very exciting, to represent Team World is a special feeling.” The world number 27 also played for Team World last year but they lost to Team Europe.
Nick Kyrgios’s ranking and performance in 2019
Ranked no.27, the Australian played his last match on the 31st of August when he surrendered to Andrey Rublev 7-65 7-65 6-3 in the 3rd round in U.S. Open.
This year the Australian has a 21-13 win-loss record. The Australian conquered 2 titles in 2019 in Acapulco and in Washington.
Nick Kyrgios |
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