Nick Kyrgios, known as one of tennis’s most controversial and outspoken figures, believes his reputation as a “hot-headed” player is amplified by the sport’s conservative culture. In an appearance on Louis Theroux’s podcast, the 2022 Wimbledon runner-up argued that some of his behavior has been overly scrutinized simply because tennis holds its players to a gentlemanly standard that stifles expressions of personality.
Kyrgios has frequently drawn attention for his antics during matches, but tennis fans have seen little of him in the past two years. His sole appearance during that time was an unsuccessful return attempt at the 2023 Stuttgart Open, following a lengthy absence due to injuries. Over his career, the Australian has created numerous headlines for controversial actions and comments, such as a notorious 2015 incident involving fellow player Stan Wawrinka, where Kyrgios made a crude remark about Wawrinka’s relationship with WTA player Donna Vekic. Although Kyrgios later apologized and was fined, he now views the incident as part of an “old-fashioned trash talk” tradition, which he feels is more accepted in other sports.
According to Kyrgios, tennis’s historical emphasis on decorum and restraint singles him out, and actions that might be seen as typical or permissible in sports like rugby or soccer are viewed with harsher judgment on the tennis court. He reflected on his perceived role in tennis, citing previous “hot-headed” players like John McEnroe, who also challenged the sport’s norms. “Anyone that shows any personality is kind of outside the box,” Kyrgios remarked, adding, “I don’t think we’re really hot-headed – tennis is just an old, gentlemen’s sport.”
Kyrgios’s comments extend beyond his own controversial on-court moments. Known for his bold opinions, he even ventured into topics outside tennis, speculating about the origins of the Egyptian pyramids and suggesting openness to flat-earth theories. However, the tennis star is focused on a comeback, setting his sights on the 2025 Australian Open, with hopes of winning a Grand Slam before retirement.
With his return on the horizon, fans and critics alike may reignite the ongoing debate about his impact on the sport’s image. Whether Kyrgios’s actions reflect an authentic personality or cross the line of acceptable behavior remains a topic of contention, but his unique presence undeniably shapes discussions around tennis culture and individuality.
Nick Kyrgios in 2024
At the moment ranked no.470, Kyrgios played his last match on the 13th of June 2023 when he lost to world no.408 Yibing Wu 7-5 6-3 in the 1st round in Stuttgart (draw).
At present, during this year Nick has a 0-1 record.
Nick Kyrgios |
| Embed from Getty Images |
Nick Kyrgios in 2024
At the moment ranked no.470, the Australian played his last match on the 13th of June 2023 when he lost to world no.408 Yibing Wu 7-5 6-3 in the 1st round in Stuttgart (draw).
Presently, during this year Kyrgios owns a composed 0-1 match record.
Nick Kyrgios |
| Embed from Getty Images |