Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios is one of the boldest characters on tour. The 27-year-old never holds back from giving his opinion on pressing issues. Currently, the Aussie is preparing for the upcoming Wimbledon and was taking part in the Stuttgart Open for the same. However, an ugly incident happened in his match against Andy Murray. Notably, Kyrgios lost his cool and smashed his racquet on the ground after an angry exchange with a group in the crowd.

While they later penalized the Aussie a point and then a game for his behavior. After losing the game, Kyrgios claimed racial abuse from the crowd. The Greek-origin Australian player took to his Instagram account to write his heart out about the situation.

Nick Kyrgios slams abusive spectators

While the incident deeply saddened the 27-year-old, he wrote a note about what happened in the match against Murray. In his Instagram post, Kyrgios stated about a similar incident that happened to him while playing in the Indian Wells and now again in Stuttgart. Also, the Australian ace spoke in general for many athletes out there who have to deal with unwanted hate.

“One thing I won’t ever tolerate is spectators heckling and blasting abuse to athletes. It’s been happening personally to me for a while, from racist comments to complete disrespect. For years, it’s been something I’ve brushed off, but especially in Indian wells and today all the way in Stuttgart. It’s made me realize that people seem to think it’s normal. I’m seeing it happen in other sports, and to many other athletes.” He wrote.

Read more: ‘Everything Truly Happens for a Reason’ – Nick Kyrgios Pens an Emotional Message Ahead of Wimbledon Championships

While the talk about mental health is being taken more seriously after the pandemic, this is certainly an issue that needs attention.

Naomi Osaka heckling incident

These incidents are simply unfortunate for the players and the sport. Recently, Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka was heckled by fans in her second-round match at Indian Wells.

While there are rules to punish players for inappropriate behavior, do you think the organizers and authorities need to put up stricter rules and regulations for the spectators as well? Give us your thoughts in the comments.

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