Boris Becker and Nick Kyrogis indulged in an online spat with Becker calling the latter as a rat, whereas Kyrgios returning the words.
Just as when we thought that tennis this year would be dead, Boris Becker and Nick Kyrgios have come up with the goods. This time, by engaging in a furious war of words on Twitter.
It all started after Becker took offence to Kyrgios’ criticism of Alexander Zverev. The latter was caught violating self-quarantine rules by partying with his friends.
Zverev is one of the tennis stars who had taken part in Novak Djokovic’s Adria Tour. It became a controversial event after multiple players and staff tested positive, including Novak.
Zverev, fortunately, did not test positive for the virus. He later apologized for taking part in the event and swore to follow self-quarantine protocols. Only, he did not as he was caught in a video grossly violating the rules, which did not please Nick Kyrgios one bit.
Kyrgios said “Zverev should at least have the audacity to stay inside for 14 days”, in a rant on social media. But, this statement was not to the liking of multiple Grand Slams winner Boris Becker.
Here’s the entire conversation:
Becker: “Don’t like no #rats ! Anybody telling off fellow sportsmen/women is no friend of mine! Look yourself in the mirror and think you’re better than us…@NickKyrgios”
Kyrgios: “For goodness sake Boris, I’m not competing or trying to throw anyone under the bus. It’s a global pandemic and if someone is as idiotic as Alex to do what he has done, I’ll call him out for it. Simple.”
Becker: “We all live in the pandemic called Covid-19! It’s terrible and it killed too many lives…we should protect our families/loved ones and follow the guidelines but still don’t like #rats.”
Kyrgios: “Rats? For holding someone accountable? Strange way to think of it champion, I’m just looking out for people. WHEN my family and families all over the world have respectfully done the right thing. And you have a goose waving his arms around, imma say something.”
“@TheBorisBecker is a bigger doughnut than I thought. Can hit a volley, obviously not the sharpest tool in the shed though.”
Becker, being Becker, was not to left behind. He went on the offensive, urging Kyrgios to “fulfil his potential” on court, instead on social media.
“I really would like to see @NickKyrgios fulfil his potential and win a Grand Slam!” he said.
“He would be an incredible role model for for the youth of the world addressing the issues of equality/race/heritage!
“Man up buddy and deliver!”
Nick Kyrgios is always one to speak his mind
It’s not the first time that Kyrgios has spoken out during the coronavirus lockdown. He had famously mocked Djokovic’s decision to host the event in the midst of a pandemic.
He also criticized the United States of America Tennis Association for deciding to host the US Open, in spite of the pandemic curve not flattening. Now, it remains to be seen if the USATA pay heed to Nick and cancel the Grand Slam at Flushing Meadows.
