Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios is one of the most controversial figures in the sport. Time and time again, Kyrgios has found himself at the heart of a controversy. He is currently engaged in a battle of words with one of the legends of the game, Boris Becker. With their feud taking a new turn, fans have also lashed out at the Australian for not respecting Boris.
Kyrgios and Becker have been exchanging a lot of verbal volleys of late. Their dispute began in 2020 when Kyrgios called Alexander Zverev a rat. It took a new life when Kyrgios compared players of the bygone era with modern-day players.
Becker did not let that comment slide, as he slammed Kyrgios. The six-time Grand Slam champion stirred the pot recently when he told Kyrgios to “respect the past.” Nick lashed out at Boris, bringing up his time in jail, and bragged about being one of the most watched players.
Uhhh what? I’ve been arguably one of the most watched players outside the big three the last decade? Fans around the world and have brought so many more people to the sport. I’ve created my own stuff off the court. Try to not hide any more assets x https://t.co/PABiwrEYGY
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) December 19, 2023
Becker appeared on a podcast recently, and he did not hold back from taking a shot at the Australian. He reminded Kyrgios that the reason he could go an entire season without playing was because of the players who came before him.
Fans did not take too kindly to Kyrgios’ comments, and Nick found himself on the receiving end of anger. Users gave Nick a bit of a history lesson, and another brought up his misdemeanors. One fan advised him to “win a slam and work on your respect.” Here are a few reactions.
Bringing up Becker’s issues with the law probably only works if you haven’t pled guilty to charges yourself…
— Simon (@SimonDa29294144) December 19, 2023
Win a slam and work on your respect on and off the court, then talk. Until then, sit down.
— Anthony Scalise (@esilacSynohtnA) December 19, 2023
It seems Nick isn’t a history buff.
Mr Becker filled stadiums and pushed European crowd figures and TV viewing figures through the roof. He won 49 ATP Tour titles including 6 Grand Slams.
He earned $130m in prize money and endorsements.
30+ years ago
Stats you can dream of
— Richard Ings : Renewable Energy Beneficiary (@ringsau) December 19, 2023
Nick Kyrgios may be popular for his antics, but when it comes to tennis, there is still much for him to accomplish. He has produced some memorable performances, but titles have evaded him.
Nick Kyrgios’ achievements
The Australian star is an exciting player to watch when he is on song. He is aggressive on the court and lets his racket do the talking when he gets going.
So far in his career, Kyrgios has won seven ATP titles in singles. He was exceptional throughout 2022 and made deep runs at several tournaments. Kyrgios made it to the Wimbledon finals too, before losing to Novak Djokovic. Nick also won his maiden Grand Slam in doubles at the Australian Open last year.
Nick Kyrgios is a talented player, but injuries have often derailed his career. He is set to miss the Australian Open next year, and it is unclear when he will return.