Nick Kyrgios surprisingly came to Novak Djokovic’s defense on Friday, describing the world number one’s dealings with Australia as “really bad” and urging officials to “do better”.
The controversial Australian has previously been one of the staunchest critics of the Serbian, at one point he was labeled a “tool” over his response to the coronavirus pandemic.
But with Djokovic – who has declared himself against vaccines and claimed a waiver of Australia’s pandemic entry restrictions – in an immigration detention hotel, Kyrgios dealt with the way he was destroyed.
On social media, he said, “Look, I definitely believe in taking action, I’ve been vaccinated because of others and for my mother’s health. is bad.
“Like these memes, in the headlines, this is one of our great champions, but at the end of the day, he is human. perform better.”
Look I definitely believe in taking action, I’ve been vaccinated for the cause of others and my mother’s health, but how we’re handling Novak’s situation is really bad. Like these memes, headlines, it’s one of our great champions, but in the end, he’s human. Do better.—Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) 7 January 2022
Djokovic was detained on arrival in Australia earlier this week and his visa was revoked for failing to meet strict COVID restrictions.
Those allowed to enter the country will have to prove that they have been fully vaccinated or have a doctor’s medical exemption, officials said, adding that they provided no evidence of either.
He secured legal relief from deportation until at least Monday, when his case will be heard in court.
Read also | Sports stars who share Novak Djokovic’s COVID-19 vaccination skepticism
Kyrgios has waged an ongoing battle with the Serbian in recent years, sparked by Djokovic’s unfortunate Adria Tour exhibition in 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic raged.
He lashed out at his “stupidity” when social distancing guidelines were flouted, which led to several cases of coronavirus.
And last year, after releasing a list of demands from players arriving on charter flights for the Australian Open, the Australian dismissed them as “equipment”.
Read also | ‘He was treated like a criminal’: Novak Djokovic’s brother vents his anger
Djokovic responded by saying that he had little respect for Kyrgios’ off-court behavior.
Meanwhile, former US Open champion Marin Cilic said it was unbelievable that Djokovic was under immigration detention and it was not good for international tennis.
“Given the situation, it’s certainly unbelievable that the way it happened, especially with Novak, that he came here, that it’s still going on,” he told the Adelaide International.
“Definitely very sorry for that. Hopefully this is sorted out very soon. Certainly it’s not a very good picture for tennis, to be something like that.”
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