Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios commented on the Novak Djokovic situation, saying that it was an embarrassment for everyone involved.
Djokovic’s vaccination status has made all the headlines recently. The Serbian’s refusal to take the jab landed him in hot water with the Australian authorities, who detained him the minute he touched down in the country. His detention at the government facility came right before his case with the government.
The World No. 1 won the legal battle with those against him, sparking outrage across the tennis community. They accused the 20-time Grand Slam winner of lying on the reports to play in the Australian Open and manipulating the government into giving him permission. ‘
Kyrgios commented on the Djokovic situation, slamming the entire ordeal and calling out those involved.
“I feel quite embarrassed as an Australian athlete that’s seen what this guy has done for us and the sport,” Kyrgios said in an Instagram video on Tuesday, as quoted by ESPN.
He also proceeded to attack the media, saying, “I just don’t think it’s right how we’re handling it but the media loves to do that, loves to divide and I don’t want this to take away from any of the great results the other Australians are having.”
Raring to go
Kyrgios, who withdrew from the Sydney Tennis Classic after returning a positive COVID-19 test, revealed his Australian Open participation status. He said that he was feeling good and taking all the necessary precautions before the tournament begins on 17 January.
“It’s not ideal, a week out of the Australian Open, but I’m doing everything in my power to feel OK and get out there and hopefully give you all a show,” he said.