“Tsitsipas vs. Kyrgios: Unraveling the On-And-Off Feud’s Intricacies
In a candid discussion about their tumultuous relationship, Stefanos Tsitsipas takes aim at Nick Kyrgios while emphasizing that, at the moment, they are on good terms. From heated exchanges to partnering in doubles and reverting back to clashes, their dynamic journey has been anything but predictable, culminating in a memorable spat at Wimbledon two years ago. Tsitsipas reveals he’s put their clash to rest but doesn’t shy away from criticizing Kyrgios for what he deems as disruptive tactics and a lack of fair play.
This rollercoaster relationship dates back to 2018 when Kyrgios responded to one of Tsitsipas’ social media photos with a cheeky comment. The public spat continued until 2019, when Kyrgios expressed interest in playing doubles with the world No. 7.
Their on-court camaraderie in Washington suggested a newfound friendship, complete with jokes exchanged during singles clashes. However, the rivalry rekindled at Wimbledon in 2022, resulting in a blockbuster match where both players received warnings from the umpire. Kyrgios even went so far as to call for Tsitsipas to be defaulted after a moment of anger. The unfolding drama between Tsitsipas and Kyrgios continues to captivate the tennis world, showcasing the highs and lows of their complex relationship.”
After losing the tie, Tsitsipas called the 28-year-old “evil” and a “bully” as Kyrgios responded: “I’m not sure how I bullied him. He was the one hitting balls at me, he was the one that hit a spectator, he was the one that smacked it out of the stadium.” Almost two years on, Tsitsipas has now given an insight into his feud with the former world No. 13, insisting they were fine.
Everything is cool,” the 10-time title winner told the Guardian. “There’s no tension. He’s just different and I have to respect that. It’s great for the sport.” But Tsitsipas still had some parting shots for the former Wimbledon finalist over his previous on-court behaviour.
Tsitsipas continued: “What is not cool, though, is when an opponent is trying to disrupt you during the match and doesn’t approach it fair and square. He’s talking to the umpire, to people outside the court, while you are trying to serve.
“You’re not there to talk, you’re there to play. When things get twisted it can be frustrating. I think he understands he was wrong and as long as he accepts his mistakes and if we have a fair match against each other that doesn’t include any of these antics I am okay to move on.”
Tsitsipas and Kyrgios have not met in an official match since their popcorn third-round encounter at Wimbledon, so it remains to be seen whether they are still civil if and when they face off again. But they won’t be able to renew their rivalry at the upcoming Australian Open, as Kyrgios withdrew injured last month.
The seven-time title winner will still be at Melbourne Park in a different role as he is set to join Eurosport’s on-site commentary team alongside the likes of John McEnroe and Laura Robson. Meanwhile, Tsitsipas will be defending 1,200 ranking points from reaching the final 12 months ago.
