Stefanos Tsitsipas has stated feedback he made about Nick Kyrgios eventually yr’s Wimbledon have been “misinterpreted”, after his remarks have been featured on Netflix documentary “Break Point” and perceived as racist on social media.
Tsitsipas, 24, was knocked out by Kyrgios in a bad-tempered third-round conflict on the grasscourt Grand Slam and described the Australian’s strategy to tennis as “uneducated”, saying he introduced “that NBA basketball attitude” to the game.
The Greek world quantity 5 stated there had been an “unfortunate misunderstanding that has a distorted picture of my intentions” in a prolonged assertion posted to his Facebook web page on Saturday.
“It has come to my attention that some individuals have misinterpreted my comments regarding Nick Kyrgios … insinuating racism where none exists,” Tsitsipas wrote.
“I want to emphasize that I harbour no prejudice towards anyone based on their background, ethnicity, or interests. I deeply regret if my words were misinterpreted or caused offence, as that was never my intention.”
Tsitsipas added his remarks weren’t meant to undermine Kyrgios’ potential or intelligence.
“I simply intended to express my perspective on certain aspects of his playing style, drawing comparisons to the passion and intensity often associated with basketball,” he stated.
“It was an try to focus on the dynamic and fascinating nature of his strategy to the sport, not a criticism of his character or capabilities.
“Moving forward, I commit to being more mindful of my words and the impact they may have.”
The 28-year-old Kyrgios, who reached the Wimbledon closing final yr, noticed off Tsitsipas in 4 units in a match that always threatened to spiral uncontrolled.
Kyrgios was warned for swearing and had a working dialogue with the umpire, whereas Tsitsipas misplaced his composure and tried to hit his opponent with a smash after coming near being defaulted for hitting a ball in frustration into the group.
The feud continued off-court, with Tsitsipas labelling Kyrgios a “bully” with “an evil side” in a post-match media convention. Kyrgios laughed off Tsitsipas’s remarks and stated the Greek had “serious issues”.
This yr’s Wimbledon runs from July 3-16.
