The Association of Tennis Professionals has had enough of Nick Kyrgios’ antics in 2016.
The ATP announced Monday in a statement that is has suspended Kyrgios for eight tournament weeks and fined him $25,000 for “conduct contrary to the integrity of the game.” The sanction stems from his shameful loss to Mischa Zverev on Oct. 12 in the second round of the Shanghai Masters. The ATP fined Kyrgios $16,500 immediately after the match but decided to administer additional punishment following an investigation.
Kyrgios’ suspension runs through Jan. 15, 2017, effectively ending the No. 14-ranked player’s season. But he can cut the ban to three weeks if he seeks psychological treatment. Doing so would make him eligible to compete at the ATP finals in London.
The 21-year-old rising star showed no remorse to reporters and the public in Shanghai but has since apologized for his behavior and offered an explanation, according to The BBC.
“I regret that my year is ending this way,” Kyrgios said. “I do understand and respect the decision by the ATP.
“The season has been a long one as I battled several injuries and other challenges towards the end of the summer. My body finally just gave out in Shanghai both physically and mentally.
“This is no excuse, and I know very well that I need to apologise to the fans.”
Whether Kyrgios’ supporters, opponents, the ATP or the general public will accept his apology remains to be seen.
We’ll have to wait until he steps on a court again, whenever that may be, to learn the answer.
Thumbnail photo via Geoff Burke/USA TODAY Sports Images
