Olympic snub for Nick Kyrgios due to previous words from Australian Olympic committee: "The way I was treated will never be forgotten"
ATPFriday, 26 January 2024 at 01:30
Nick
Kyrgios recently acknowledged that he will not be available to compete in the
2024 Paris Olympics. The Australian dispelled retirement rumors a couple of
days ago after being off the courts for 15 months but won't be participating in
the Olympics, a ban that originated from his exclusion from the Rio de Janeiro
2016 Games.
At that
time, Kyrgios was the highest-ranked Australian player. However, Chef De
Mission Kitty Chiller commented, "Kyrgios doesn’t really understand what
it means to be an Australian Olympian," despite being the top-ranked
singles men’s player at the time.
This led
Kyrgios to decide not to participate in the Rio Olympics: “Representing
Australia at the Olympic Games has been a dream of mine since I was a kid.
Playing in the Olympics was a goal this year; I planned my tournament schedule
around Rio and made sure to fulfill my Olympic eligibility. Unfortunately,
while I have expressed every intention of trying to win a medal for my country
in Rio, it’s very clear to me that the Australian Olympic Committee has other
plans.”
Speaking on
Eurosport about his physical condition and future in the season, Kyrgios
explained that one competition he completely rules out, not due to injuries, is
the Paris Olympics: “One thing I will guarantee, though, is that if I am fit
and ready to play, I won’t be making myself available for the Olympics.
The way I
was treated by the Australian Olympic Committee and former Chef de Mission
Kitty Chiller will never be forgotten. To ban me from playing at the 2016 Rio
de Janeiro Olympic Games was a disgrace. I was No.13 at the time and had a
genuine chance at winning a medal. For them to forbid me from representing my
country for behavioral reasons is something that I just can’t forget.”
Kyrgios has
never played in the Olympics and will be 33 for the Los Angeles Games in 2028.
The former Wimbledon finalist commented that his mindset has changed over the
years.
“Eight
years ago, I was desperate to represent Australia at an Olympic Games, but my
mentality has changed,” said Kyrgios. “I wanted to play for my country, I can’t
say that I still have that desire. And let’s be honest, I haven’t exactly felt
like Australia has wanted me to represent it either. I’ve said before, I often
feel more at home away from home.”
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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