It’s not an exaggeration to say that the Australian bad boy of tennis, Nick Kyrgios, has something of a reputation for inflammatory comments. In recent weeks, however, Kyrgios has emerged as the truth-teller of the global pandemic when it comes to acting responsibly in and around the game of tennis. 

Now, in a revealing social media video entitled ‘Dear Tennis’, in an apparent nod to Kyrgios’ hero, the basketball player Kobe Bryant, the Australian has derailed why he won’t be playing in the forthcoming U.S. Open, as well as ailing a few side-swipes at players whose behaviour he condemns. 

Kyrgios declares in the video that he won’t be travelling to America, stating that he has decided to “remember what’s important, which is health and safety as a community”. He goes on to say that while “We can rebuild our sport and the economy, we can never recover lives lost.” 

While it’s hardly a shock that Kyrgios has withdrawn from the U.S. Open, especially given his compatriot Ashleigh Barty did likewise just a few days ago, the timing of this video message is pretty clearly intended for maximum effect. Kyrgios is clearly frustrated with many aspects of the sport in which he has a prodigious talent. Many have questioned his Grand Slam record in the past and the questions about his ability to truly compete at the top level for a whole fortnight remain, but Kyrgios is showing integrity and reason behind his outbursts in recent days.