Nick Kyrgios hits back at Marion Bartoli over wasting potential claims
Nick Kyrgios has hit back at former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli after she accused him of wasting his potential.
Nick Kyrgios has hit back at former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli after she accused him of wasting his potential.
Frenchwoman Bartoli won Wimbledon five years ago, shortly before retiring from the tour, and is now working in the media after abandoning a bid to resume her playing career.
Speaking on BBC Radio Five Live on Thursday, Bartoli claimed Kyrgios and her French compatriot Gael Monfils had failed to make the most of their ability and put it squarely down to their attitude.
Bartoli said Kyrgios had a work ethic which is "just not good enough to win a grand slam", and said it was "pathetic" to see the Australian and Monfils failing to apply themselves in the right way.
"It seems like they can't grow up, they can't become men and they can't take charge of their own lives," Bartoli said.
"I truly hope Nick will be able to get it together at some point. I don't know what he needs. He's going to waste his life if he keeps on acting like that."
Kyrgios was unsparing in his response on Friday, as the 23-year-old accused Bartoli of trying to "remain relevant".
He is through to the third round at Wimbledon, and Monfils reached round four on Friday.
Kyrgios wrote on Instagram: "Yesterday @bartolimarion had to say some nice things about @iamgaelmonfils and myself.. They're 'Pathetic' 'Children' They 'Can't become men' 'wasting their life' - Who are you to judge the way we go about things?
"Who are you to tell us how to do things, when u have no idea what we've been through?.... stop assuming you know what's best for others when you think you've had a little success.. we get it, we know you have to remain relevant, but I'll give you a heads up, we don't care what you have to say."
Monfils was asked about Bartoli's comments, and said: "It's easy to criticise people when you don't know them. So I won't even pay any attention."
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