Nick Kyrgios has been banned from competition for eight weeks by the ATP following his behaviour in the second round of the Shanghai Masters.
The 21-year-old, who is currently at a ranking high of 14th in the world, received heavy criticism for his questionable performance against Mischa Zverev. Kyrgios was booed by the crowd as he appeared to show little enthusiasm and effort throughout his straight sets loss. The Australian also engaged in an argument with one member of the crowd, telling them them to “Sit down, shut up and watch.”
This player comes from outer space 👽👽 #Kyrgios #ShanghaiMasters (GIF @doublefault28) pic.twitter.com/DFe0JRGGcN
— We Are Tennis (@WeAreTennis) 12 October 2016
Kyrgios’ eight-week suspension is effective from October 17th, 2016 until January 15th, 2017. There is a chance that he could have the suspension reduced to three weeks if he agrees to enter a ‘plan of care’ under the direction of a sports psychologist or another figure that is approved by the ATP. In addition to the suspension, Kyrgios has also been fined $25,000 for his behaviour. The fine comes on top of the $21,810 in fines he has already received.
Whilst Kyrgios is yet to say if he will embark on the plan to reduce his suspension, he has released a statement of apology following his suspension from the tour.
“Following the ATP’s decision today I would like to take this opportunity to apologise again for the circumstances in Shanghai.” Said Kyrgios in a statement. “The Asian circuit was particularly tough after the long week and win in Tokyo and with the travel throughout the continent, my body finally just gave out in Shanghai both physically and mentally. This is no excuse, and I know very well that I need to apologise to the fans – in Shanghai and in other parts of the world – as well as the tournament organisers in Shanghai who do an amazing job.”
The downfall of the Australian comes just two weeks after he won the Tokyo Open, the biggest title of his career to date. At the tournament he defeated David Goffin in the final to elevate him to his highest ranking position. Towards the end of Kyrgios’ statement, the 21-year-old expressed regret that he will not be able to close in on a potential place in November’s ATP Finals.
“I regret that my year is ending this way and that I will not have a chance to continue chasing the ATP Finals. This was an important goal for me. I do understand and respect the decision by the ATP and I will use this time off to improve on and off the court. I am truly sorry and look forward to returning in 2017.” He said.
Tennis Australia endorses ban
Following the announcement, Tennis Australia has pledged their support behind the decision in a press release. Officials have said that Kyrgios has already agreed to seek professional advice in the hope that he can reduce his suspension, but Kyrgios’ camp is yet to confirm this.
“Tennis Australia will support the ATP sanction on Nick Kyrgios following recent events in Shanghai.
“Nick’s health and wellbeing is a priority and the ATP has offered a reduced penalty on the provision that he seeks appropriate professional advice, which he has agreed to do.
“Nick understands the gravity of his actions, has shown remorse and expressed a willingness to improve.
“We believe it’s our responsibility to help Nick, along with all our young athletes, improve both professionally on court as a player, and personally. We have always offered assistance and advice to Nick and his team and will continue to do so.”
The suspension comes a year after Kyrgios was given a 28-day suspended ban following inappropriate comments he made about Stan Wawrinka’s girlfriend during a match last summer. He was also fined $10,000 by the tournament and a further $25,000 by the ATP for the controversial remarks.
