Stefanos Tsitsipas: Nick Kyrgios is the ‘black sheep’ of the ATP Tour who ‘likes attention’

Stefanos Tsitsipas has described Nick Kyrgios because the “black sheep” of the ATP Tour who “likes consideration” – and says there may be “nothing improper with it”.

Kyrgios, who is about to play for the primary time in almost a 12 months subsequent week, has usually made headlines for his behaviour on and off courtroom.

Final 12 months he was essential of a number of gamers who performed on the Adria Tour and earlier this month he labelled Novak Djokovic a “tool” for his suggestions to change quarantine rules for players preparing for the Australian Open.

“Nick, he’s the black sheep of the ATP. He likes to do unpredictable stuff,” Tsitsipas advised the No Challenges Remaining podcast.

“He likes consideration, let’s not refute that. And that’s completely regular. There may be nothing improper with that. He has his personal persona, which seems, some individuals adore it. Lots of people hate it and don’t perceive it. However there are some individuals which can be so into it.

“I wouldn’t say we share a really shut friendship however he does FaceTime me every so often, at full random occasions. Generally 1am. I don’t get it.”

Kyrgios has been accused of crossing the road every now and then, however Tsitsipas added: “So long as he’s not disrespectful. He might need been a number of occasions and that’s not cool however when he’s in whole respect of the sport and does the appropriate factor, it’s actually enjoyable to observe.”

Tsitsipas and Kyrgios performed doubles collectively in Washington in 2019 and have additionally had some light-hearted exchanges on social media over the previous few years.

Tsitsipas says he was shocked with Kyrgios’ response when the pair have been overwhelmed of their last-16 doubles match.

“He’s very hyperactive,” he stated. “Hates to lose. Belief me. He simply hates to lose. I didn’t anticipate it myself.

“We performed doubles in Washington DC and when he got here off the courtroom he was so upset, so annoyed and I used to be in shock. I didn’t assume he would react that means.”

Each Kyrgios and Tsitsipas are set to play on the Australian Open, which begins on February 8.

Kyrgios is getting ready for the occasion by taking part in on the Murray River Open, whereas Tsitsipas will probably be main the Greek crew on the ATP Cup.

The 2021 Australian Open is reside and unique on Eurosport. You can watch every moment on eurosport.co.uk and the Eurosport app.