Appearance in Saudi Arabia: Nick Kyrgios sees nothing reprehensible
Like eleven other players,Nick Kyrgios is taking part in the Diriyah Tennis Cup in Saudi Arabia these days. Despite the catastrophic human rights situation, the Australian sees no problem in this.
by Nikolaus Fink
last edit: Dec 08, 2022, 08:58 pm
Nick Kyrgios is known for not mincing his words. Also and especially when it comes to controversial topics. So it is hardly surprising that the Australian has now also commented on the controversial Diriyah Tennis Cup in Saudi Arabia and has taken a clear position.
"At this point in my career I will always do what is best for me," Kyrgios told the Australian Associated Press . In this specific case, it was a start in Saudi Arabia. "I can travel around the world and play at exhibitions for six figures at this time of year. I feel like I put myself in this position so it's easy for me."
Saudi Arabia practices sports washing in its purest form
The human rights situation in Saudi Arabia has been considered catastrophic for years. Political prisoners and torture make neighboring Qatar, where the soccer World Cup is currently taking place, almost seem like paradise. The kingdom wants to improve its image with the help of international sporting events. And makes plenty of money for it. A total of 3.1 million US dollars in prize money will be paid out at the Diriyah Tennis Cup.
The fact that Kyrgios decided to compete in Saudi Arabia and not to start at the Davis Cup finals in Malaga pissed off many of his compatriots. However, the decision was easy for him: "If Australia had taken a little closer to my heart, I might have played and taken the trophy home. But who knows?"
Kyrgios goes on the offensive
"I'd rather take my time with my family and my girlfriend and enjoy experiences around the world and make so much money than play a week in a place where I can't be with my girlfriend and doesn't pay that well will," Kyrgios continued. For him, an appearance in Malaga would not have made any sense.
Kyrgios, meanwhile, appears to be enjoying his time in Saudi Arabia despite his opening defeat to Cameron Norrie. In a Twitter discussion with British journalist Mike Dickson, the 27-year-old highlighted the country's beauty and wrote that there was no reason "to get upset that I'm being paid well for what I love in the world." .