Major Controversies Surrounding Nick Kyrgios: A Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 21, 2025

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Nick Kyrgios.

Nick Kyrgios is a highly ranked Australian professional tennis player, known for his powerful game and sometimes controversial on-court behavior. He achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No. 13 in 2016 and has won seven ATP Tour singles titles, including the Washington Open twice. Notably, he reached the Wimbledon final in 2022. In doubles, he reached world No. 11 and won the 2022 Australian Open title with Thanasi Kokkinakis. Kyrgios is a prominent figure in modern tennis, known for his talent and showmanship.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2015: Insulting comments during Rogers Cup

During a match at the 2015 Rogers Cup, Kyrgios caused controversy by making insulting comments to Stan Wawrinka regarding his girlfriend, leading to widespread criticism.

2018: US Open Controversy and Loss

In 2018, Nick Kyrgios's US Open campaign was marked by controversy after he appeared to receive coaching from an umpire. His run ended with a loss to Federer in the subsequent round.

2019: Default at Rome Masters

At the 2019 Rome Masters, Kyrgios was defaulted from his match after swearing at a line judge, kicking a bottle, and throwing a chair onto the court.

2019: ATP Investigation and Penalties

In 2019, following the Cincinnati Masters, Nick Kyrgios was investigated by the ATP for unsportsmanlike conduct. He received a suspended ban, a fine, and a probationary period.

June 2020: Criticism of Djokovic

In June 2020, Nick Kyrgios publicly criticized Novak Djokovic for organizing a controversial charity tennis tournament where Djokovic and others tested positive for COVID-19, calling it a "boneheaded decision."

January 2021: Alleged Assault on Passari

In January 2021, Kyrgios allegedly grabbed Passari, which led to a court summons in 2022 on a charge of common assault.

January 2021: Kyrgios calls Djokovic a "tool"

In January 2021, Kyrgios initially called Djokovic a "tool" for his quarantine requirement wish-list for the Australian Open.

June 2022: Underarm Serve Controversy

In June 2022, Kyrgios defended his use of the underarm serve at Wimbledon, citing his struggles against Nadal as the reason for adopting it. Nadal criticized it for lacking respect.

2022: Summoned to court

In 2022, Kyrgios was summoned to appear in court to face a charge of common assault, for allegedly grabbing Passari in January 2021.

2022: Wimbledon Championships Run

In 2022, Nick Kyrgios had a controversial run at the Wimbledon Championships, reaching his first major final after Rafael Nadal withdrew, eventually losing to Novak Djokovic.

2023: Guilty Plea for Assault Charge

In 2023, Kyrgios pleaded guilty to the assault charge but avoided conviction, with the magistrate noting his poor actions in the heat of the moment and the case being at the lower end of common assault.

2023: Clay Season Abuse

The 2023 clay season was extremely rowdy so measures trialled at Roland Garros 2023 are being put in place to protect players from physical and social media abuse.

2024: US Open Reporter and Co-Commentator

In 2024, Nick Kyrgios worked as a reporter and co-commentator for ESPN at the US Open. He revealed ESPN instructed him not to interview Jannik Sinner.