Nick Kyrgios is pushing back against media coverage of his recent comments about tennis’s new stars, saying his words about Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz were taken out of context.
The outspoken Aussie had suggested that Sinner and Alcaraz don’t quite have the same aura as legends Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer. But after facing criticism, he’s clarifying what he meant.
“They’re kids doing insane things,” Kyrgios explained on X (formerly Twitter). “They’ll get there for sure, but realistically they haven’t built that aura yet.”
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It’s just the latest controversy for tennis’s most polarizing figure.
Kyrgios has been particularly vocal about Sinner lately, especially regarding the Italian’s ongoing doping case. The world No. 1 tested positive for a banned substance at Indian Wells, though he claims it was accidental contamination from his physiotherapist.
That case is heading to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict expected in 2025.
Kyrgios hasn’t held back his skepticism, repeatedly questioning Sinner’s explanation and referring to a “magic spray.” He even promised to show “no respect” if they meet at the upcoming Australian Open.
The tension ramped up when a Sinner fan pointed out that both Sinner and Alcaraz have won Grand Slams – something Kyrgios hasn’t managed in singles. His closest brush with singles glory came as runner-up at Wimbledon 2022, though he did win the Australian Open doubles that same year with Thanasi Kokkinakis.
Kyrgios’s habit of stirring the pot is nothing new. Back in 2015, he made headlines for an infamous on-court comment to Stan Wawrinka about Donna Vekic. While he apologized at the time, he recently dismissed it as “good old-fashioned trash talk” during an appearance on Louis Theroux’s podcast.
At 29, Kyrgios remains one of tennis’s most watchable – and quotable – figures, even if some feel his comments hurt the sport’s traditionally respectful image.
