Nick Kyrgios is apparently competitive on and off the tennis court.
During an interview with The Guardian, Kyrgios criticized the BBC for not rehiring him as a commentator for this year’s Wimbledon, also taking a swipe at the person who replaced him.
“I’m aware that I’m an excellent commentator,” Kyrgios stated. “For 20 years, my life has revolved around playing, analyzing, and immersing myself in this sport. Tennis needs commentators who aren’t afraid to voice unconventional opinions.
“It’s unfortunate but arguably their loss more than mine,” he added. “I get they chose Chris Eubanks, but he hasn’t defeated the greatest players of all time on numerous occasions. When someone has triumphed over Federer, Nadal, Murray, and Djokovic and can offer exceptional insights, it’s puzzling not to have that person share their knowledge with tennis enthusiasts.
“I’m sure our paths will cross again. I only ever want to add humour, some knowledge and some great atmosphere.”
Eubanks, an American tennis player who is ranked No. 108 in the world, has not been officially named by the network as part of their Wimbledon coverage.
The Australian Kyrgios was on BBC’s airwaves in London during last year’s Wimbledon after he sat out due to a wrist injury.
The network faced significant blowback for hiring Kyrgios for their television coverage after he previously admitted to assaulting his ex-girlfriend.
Kyrgios, 30, has not played at Wimbledon since falling to Novak Djokovic in the 2022 final thanks to nagging injuries.
He won’t participate in this year’s tournament after suffering yet another injury setback, this time a knee problem.
“Unfortunately, I won’t make it back for grass season this year,” Kyrgios shared in an Instagram story earlier this month. “This is just a bump in the road… I’m already working hard to get back stronger.”
