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Nick Kyrgios is apparently competitive on and off the tennis court.
In an interview with The Guardian, Kyrgios criticized the BBC for not rehiring him as a commentator for this year’s Wimbledon, and in the process, took a shot at his replacement.
“I am aware that I am a talented commentator,” Kyrgios claimed. “Throughout 20 years, I have devoted myself to playing, learning, and living this sport. I also believe that tennis requires commentators who express unique perspectives.”
“It is regrettable, but ultimately their loss more than mine,” he added. “I acknowledge that they have Chris Eubanks, but he has not defeated the greatest players of all time on multiple occasions. When an individual has triumphed over Federer, Nadal, Murray, and Djokovic numerous times and offers profound insights, it is quite perplexing that they would not seek to benefit from that individual’s expertise for the fans of tennis.”
“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.”