Tennis fans react to Carlos Alcaraz’s Wimbledon winFormer American tennis player Jimmy Arias has hit out at Nick Kyrgios for claiming that the sport’s schedule is “out of control”. Kyrgios’ remarks came during an exhibition tournament in Los Angeles and were quickly met with criticism.
Kyrgios has been one of tennis’ most outspoken stars and is no stranger to making bold statements. His latest comments have come during an event organised by Patrick Mouratoglou, a former coach for Serena Williams.
The Australian is unable to compete due to a wrist injury, which saw him miss Wimbledon, but has taken up the role of coach for American tennis star Frances Tiafoe. Being unable to play didn’t stop the 28-year-old from hitting out at the sport’s schedule and claiming that it could force him to retire in a few years.
“The sport’s crazy,” he said at the tournament. “The schedule is out of control. No fking chance [I play till I am 33], there’s no way.
Kyrgios has struggled with a wrist and knee injury in recent months (Image: GETTY)
“There’s no chance. I’m playing till 33? Insane! I’m not playing till 33. I promise you when I’m gone, you’ll never see me again.”
Former World No. 5 Jimmy Arias believes that Kyrgios’ comments are unwarranted as he rarely plays a full season. “I don’t know what he’s talking about when he says this schedule is out of control,” Arias said via the Tennis Channel. “He’s played one match this year.He seems to take every other year off, so he should be able to play for another 25 years.
“It’s just interesting to listen to him talk, let’s see what happens when he’s 33. But as we’re talking right now, I don’t know [if] he’s gonna play five more matches [this year]. He’s played once so far this year. I’m not sure [his] wrist, knee, his tattoo is hurting him too much [from playing] Pokemon maybe. I don’t know.”
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Professional tennis players have the opportunity to take part in hundreds of tournaments each year. However, players must meet certain criteria and play a certain number of tournaments in order to play on the sport’s biggest stages and win the big bucks.
The schedule can take its toll on the Top 30 players specifically, which doesn’t include Kyrgios who sits at 35. Players must compete in a demanding list of events including all four Grand Slams, 8 out of 9 Masters 1000 tournaments, 4 ATP 500 Tournaments and 2 ATP 250 Tournaments.
The Australian is currently out of action but saw an impressive run of form last year before succumbing to injury. He claimed the Australian Open men’s doubles title before reaching the Wimbledon final, but suffered defeat to Novak Djokovic, ending the year with 46 wins and just nine defeats.
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