“A joke” – Nick Kyrgios laments Jannik Sinner & Iga Swiatek’s doping rows being whitewashed in media with Australian Open promotion campaigns
Nick Kyrgios has voiced his frustration with the media’s handling of the doping controversies surrounding Jannik Sinner and Iga Świątek, accusing the media of “whitewashing” the issue while focusing on Australian Open promotion campaigns. Kyrgios, who is known for his outspoken nature, expressed disappointment that the serious allegations against Sinner and Świątek, both of whom have been involved in doping-related inquiries, are being downplayed or ignored by the media in favor of commercial interests and tournament promotion.
“Honestly, it’s a joke,” Kyrgios said in a recent interview. “Here we are, with some very serious situations going on, and yet all we see are endless campaigns for the Australian Open. They’re trying to paint this picture of tennis being all about glamour and excitement, but they’re not addressing the issues that are right in front of us.”
Kyrgios, who has often been at odds with the establishment in tennis, further criticized the way the media has handled the doping allegations involving the two stars, both of whom have maintained their innocence. “We’re talking about athletes who are among the best in the world, and their situations should be taken seriously. But instead, it feels like everything is being brushed under the rug, especially with the Australian Open’s big push right now.”
The doping allegations involving Sinner and Świątek have sparked significant discussion in the tennis world. Sinner has been linked to an investigation regarding a substance found in his system, while Świątek’s case has also come under scrutiny for a positive test, leading to an investigation by the sport’s governing bodies. Despite their protests of innocence, the inquiries have cast a shadow over their careers.
Kyrgios, who has had his own run-ins with controversy, suggested that the sport needs to prioritize integrity over image, calling for more transparency and less focus on the commercial side of things. “Tennis needs to get real about these issues and stop worrying about the marketing and money-making side of the game. We can’t just ignore what’s going on behind the scenes,” he added.
As the Australian Open draws nearer, Kyrgios’ comments highlight a growing divide in the tennis community between promoting the sport’s glamorous side and addressing the pressing concerns that affect its integrity.
