Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli has launched a scathing attack on two of the most well known names in men’s tennis.
Bartoli, who won the Wimbledon title back in 2013, has said that Nick Kyrgios will never win a grand slam title because of his work ethic. The Australian world No.18 is known for his at times controversial behaviour on the court. Recently being fined $15,000 for making a lewd gesture during one his matches at The Queen’s Club. During his second round match against Robin Haase at Wimbledon, Kyrgios was also slammed with a code violation for swearing.
Speaking about Kyrgios on BBC 5 Live Sport, Bartoli cast doubts on his consistency and commitment to win a major title. The 23-year-old has reached the quarter-finals of a grand slam twice before. Doing so at the 2014 Wimbledon championships and the 2015 Australian Open.
“I don’t think so because his work ethic is just not good enough to win a grand slam.” Said Bartoli.
“Even when Rafa and Roger retire the field is just too strong. All of the other players put in so much hard work to be there.
“I think eventually even if he has all the talent in the world, I’m not questioning that, I don’t think he can win seven matches in a row.”
Kyrgios, who will play Kei Nishikori in the third round, has brushed aside the criticism. Writing on his Twitter account “hahahahahaha, good perspective.”
https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1014989601272975360
Bartoli continued with her criticism by hitting out at Gael Monfils. Saying that the Frenchman has a similar approach to Kyrgios and that’s why he has never won a grand slam title. The 31-year-old is a two-time semi finalist in the majors and has seven ATP titles to his name so far.
“That’s why Gael has never won a grand slam as well.” She concluded. “ It’s just a true shame because they (Monfils and Kyrgios) have so much potential. It’s in a way pathetic to see them behaving like a child. It seems like that don’t grow up in a way.
“They can’t be men, take charge of their own lives and I wish Gael could have done it before.”
Monfils will play his third round match against Sam Querrey on Centre Court at 13:00 GMT on Friday.
The blunt words from the former world No.7 has the backing of John McEnroe. McEnroe was also speaking on the same show and described Bartoli’s comments as ‘very well said.’
