Tennis players could be fined for copying Nick Kyrgios at the US Open

American tennis star Ben Shelton has revealed players could be handed a fine if they deliberately break their rackets on the court, an act that has been referred to as the 'Nick Kyrgios rule'.

The Australian tennis ace is known for his volatility and emotional outbursts on the court, which often ends with him smashing his rackets on the court in frustration. In addition to Kyrgios, many players have developed the habit of hitting their rackets against the ground, often leading to code violations.

The American is one of several players sponsored by Yonex, and Shelton revealed the racket company has begun handing down fines if a player deliberately breaks their rackets during matches at Flushing Meadows.

"My racket company fines you for every racket you break," said Shelton in an interview with Bleacher Report. "I'm going to say that, as a professional, I haven't broken any."

Shelton's comments were brought to Kyrgios' attention, and the former World No.13 took to social media to give his thoughts on the matter.

"The Kyrgios rule," wrote Kyrgios on Twitter. "But this means future generations will think twice before breaking [their rackets]. Technically I’m helping."