Nick Kyrgios has been the centre of controversy over the last few months on the tour, as his bad-boy antics have sparked backlash amongst fans and players. His infamous incident came during a match against Stan Wawrinka in Montreal, which tarnished his reputation monumentally.
During his second round match against Kei Nishikori this week in Shanghai, which he lost 6-1, 4-6, 4-6, the Australian was given a code violation by umpire Mohamed Lahyani. He smashed a ball to the back wall close to a line judge in frustration in the second set, although he denied it after the match ‘I didn’t hit the ball in anger, I just hit it. Obviously it was pretty close to the line umpire. It wasn’t out of rage or anything.' Kyrgios then complained to the umpire after dropping the set, saying ‘how can you give me unsportsmanlike?’ The Australian then called out a tournament supervisor for a clarification. The code violation remained.
The Consequences
During the three setter, Kyrgios could also be heard muttering 'It's a disgrace'. His behaviour comes at no suprise. The world number 32 will now wait to hear if he will be fined for the incident, which could amount to as much as $10,000. Kyrgios, who was given a conditional suspension in August, would be banned if he collected enough fines. He's now $3,500 away from triggering that 28-day ban from the tour, although Kyrgios doesn't seem bothered in the slightest. 'Not concerned at all. If it happens, it happens.’
Despite yet another controversial match, the Australian said afterwards that he wasn't disappointed with his behavior. ‘I didn't think I behaved bad at all out there today. I thought I was good mentally, I showed emotion, but at the same time I played great. I don't think I was bad mentally at all.’ It's now a waiting game for the Australian, as ATP officials will meet after play on Wednesday to discuss Kyrgios' punishment.