VIDEO: Nick Kyrgios questions his love for tennis in brutally honest post-match interview
The highly talented Australian let it all out after his defeat to Andy Murray.
If you're a fan of tennis, either ardent or casual, you'll know that Nick Kyrgios can be as difficult between points as he can be fantastic during them.
The 21-year-old went down in straight sets to home favourite and world number two Andy Murray at Wimbledon on Monday, battling well in the opening set before crumbling completely in the next two; which the Australian described as "pathetic" in this post-match interview.
He didn't stop there, labelling himself as "soft" when the going gets tough, along with questioning his love for the game.
Take a look at the extraordinary interview here, as seen on 7Tennis, starting at around the 50 second mark.
Nick Kyrgios has labeled his own effort last night 'pathetic' in a candid post-match press conference https://t.co/67oSyOVCax
— 7SportAU (@7SportStandby) July 5, 2016
Kygrios's efforts and attitude have been met with derision by many pundits, with tennis icon John McEnroe particularly critical of the precocious young player.
Some strong words from John McEnroe & Tracy Austin on Nick Kyrgios... #Wimbledon https://t.co/emC2ZlFqlV
— BBC Tennis (@bbctennis) July 4, 2016
The events certainly had people talking...
Nick Kyrgios interview😳! If only he knew how lucky he was to play his sport! But I guess you've got to admire his honesty! #child #Wimbledon
— James Taylor (@jamestaylor20) July 4, 2016
I would pay to watch @NickKyrgios play tennis, inside is a genius waiting to come out. Just hope he figures it out. Could be the real deal.
— Ian Poulter (@IanJamesPoulter) July 4, 2016
Nick Kyrgios is the most entertaining player in tennis. Why would he want to trade that in to become another Tomas Berdych?
— Jonathan Liew (@jonathanliew) July 4, 2016
Never seen an Australian sulk like @NickKyrgios.
Normally ferocious, proud competitors.
Embarrassing to watch. #wimbledon— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) July 4, 2016
The player himself had a fresh attitude come Tuesday though, posting this upbeat message on his Twitter page.
"Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.”
See... https://t.co/YZTlqjj5Cx— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) July 5, 2016
Where the man's career goes from here is anyone's guess but, as long as he sticks around, it will be intriguing to watch.
Cover image via 7Tennis.
