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Nick Kyrgios Cheekily Reveals ‘Naughty’ List Prevented Him From Representing Australia at the Olympics – ‘Hot-Headed’

Nick Kyrgios Cheekily Reveals ‘Naughty’ List Prevented Him From Representing Australia at the Olympics – ‘Hot-Headed’

Nick Kyrgios is set to make his comeback at the 2025 Australian Open after nearly a year sidelined by injuries to his ankle, wrist, and foot. During this time, he has stayed active on social media and worked as a commentator for networks like ESPN and Eurosport at Wimbledon and the Australian Open this year. Now back in form, he is determined to reignite his career, with his main motivation being to win a Grand Slam. Despite his short-tempered and outspoken reputation, Kyrgios remains unfazed, stating, “That’s been the story of my life, really.” 

Since turning pro in 2013, Kyrgios has achieved significant success. Winning seven ATP Tour singles titles, including the Washington Open in 2019 and 2022. Even reaching 11 finals, notably at Wimbledon in 2022. However, his notorious reputation has impacted his participation in certain events. In a candid conversation with Louis Theroux on his podcast. He was asked why he’s never made an appearance at the Olympics. While he would have loved to attend and watch the NBA players represent the USA, Kyrgios revealed, “I was on the naughty list for a couple of years earlier in my career and I wasn’t able to participate.”

via Getty

Prompting a curiosity about his infamous temper, Theroux questioned, “With your incredible gift for tennis comes a reputation for being feisty on the court and argument-prone. Maybe even tantrum-prone. Did you take it to the next level?”  Reflecting on the moments that were deemed bad behavior—such as yelling at umpires and smashing rackets. Kyrgios drew a parallel to a tennis legend, “Like McEnroe, I guess we’re both hot-headed.” He is famously known for explosive outbursts. Including his infamous “You cannot be serious!” tirade at Wimbledon in 1981 and numerous confrontations with officials throughout his career.

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However, despite facing criticism, Kyrgios stands firm, believing he simply acted human and not aggressive. “But I don’t think we are really, because tennis is such an old gentleman’s sport,” he remarked. Players like Roger Federer and Jannik Sinner are known for their calm demeanor and sportsmanship. Over the years, they have established the standard for what it means to be a gentleman in tennis. In contrast, Kyrgios stated, “I think anyone who shows a personality is kind of outside the box and outside the cookie-cutter mold of the normal tennis player.”

Kyrgios believes his behavior seen in tennis would be “completely normal” in sports like rugby or soccer, where players can express themselves more freely and get away with it. He is also of the view athletes shouldn’t be judged solely by their on-court actions, as they often navigate two different personas.

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Now he’s ready to pursue a Grand Slam title and plans to play for a few more years. However, it’s not looking too good for the star. Some tennis legends and his fellow colleagues have commented on his fiery personality.

The tennis community opened up on their views of Nick Kyrgios

During an interview with BetBoom Tennis, Elena Vesnina shared her thoughts on the Australian. She acknowledged his potential and criticized his brash remarks and strong opinions at the same time, stating, “He had a powerful serve and a great forehand.” However, referring to the unique image he has crafted for himself in the tennis world, especially his unfiltered commentary and repetitive digs at Sinner’s doping controversy, Vesnina added, “He’s a clown.” And she’s certainly not alone in her opinion.

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Kyrgios’ peers at UTS recently gave him a playful shoutout. During an interview on the UTS Instagram page, they mentioned him to be the “biggest trash-talker in tennis.” Players like Ben Shelton and Lorenzo Musetti chimed in, and even Gael Monfils couldn’t resist mentioning Kyrgios. Embracing this title, Kyrgios reshared the post on Instagram with a shrug emoji. Showing he’s unfazed by their choice.

As Nick Kyrgios gears up for the Australian Open 2025, the phrase “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” seems fitting. With his sights set on reigniting his career and entertaining fans once again. Do you think we’ll see a different side of Kyrgios after his comeback? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—his return is sure to be anything but ordinary!