Nick Kyrgios never holds back when he’s got something to say. And he’s definitely not happy about being snubbed by the BBC for this year’s Wimbledon commentary team.
The Australian hasn’t played since the Miami Open and has been battling injuries ever since. His big goal was getting back for Wimbledon – the tournament where he reached the final just three years ago.
But that plan fell apart when he announced his withdrawal from the Championships a few days ago.
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Even though he can’t play, Kyrgios was hoping to make the trip to London anyway. He’s proven he’s really good in the commentary booth, and plenty of tennis fans were expecting to hear his voice calling matches this year.
The BBC had other plans. They decided not to hire the 2022 Wimbledon finalist for commentary duties.
A Special Place in His Heart
Kyrgios opened up to The Guardian about what Wimbledon means to him. It’s pretty obvious why it’s special – it’s the only Grand Slam where he’s reached a singles final.
"Wimbledon holds special memories for me. It’s the first Grand Slam where I broke through and it’s the pinnacle of tennis. Every time you step into the grounds you feel the energy and the aura. But I don’t always feel so comfortable there either because I don’t act like the normal tennis player. Wimbledon takes note of that a lot. I definitely feel like a snowman in the desert there but I enjoy it."
That snowman in the desert comment? That’s classic Kyrgios. He’s always been different from the typical tennis player, and he knows it.
"The fact I’ve made the final of a Grand Slam is pretty damn cool. It’s something I’ll be able to share with my kids and grandkids and show them that anything is possible. The courts around my house are generally concrete with cracks in them so the fact I made a Grand Slam final is pretty crazy."
Why He Thinks BBC Made a Mistake
Despite his grass-court experience and obvious knowledge of the game, Kyrgios got passed over. He’s not shy about thinking the BBC messed up.
Christopher Eubanks – currently ranked No. 108 in the world – got the commentary gig instead. Kyrgios sees that as the BBC’s loss.
"I know I’m a great commentator. All I’ve done for 20 years is play, study and breathe this sport. I also think tennis needs commentators who say things that not everyone says."
He’s got a point about his credentials. The guy has beaten Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray during his career. That’s not exactly a common achievement.
"It’s unfortunate but it’s probably their loss more than mine. I understand they’ve got Chris Eubanks, but he hasn’t beaten the greatest of all time multiple times. When someone’s beaten Federer, Nadal, Murray and Djokovic and has incredible insights, it’s very strange you wouldn’t want that person adding knowledge to tennis fans."
Looking Ahead
Kyrgios isn’t burning bridges though. He thinks he’ll get another shot with the BBC down the road.
"I’m sure our paths will cross again. I only ever want to add humour, some knowledge, and some great atmosphere."
For now, he’s stuck watching Wimbledon from home like the rest of us. His next realistic target is probably the US Open, where he had a solid run to the quarter-finals back in 2022.
Whether the BBC will come calling for future tournaments remains to be seen. But knowing Kyrgios, he’ll keep speaking his mind either way.
