Ahead of their potential showdown with Rafael Nadal in Melbourne Nick Kyrgios openly mocked World No. 1 during his second-round clash with Gilles Simon.
Frustrated at being called for a time violation in the second set, the Australian tennis star responded with an impersonation of Nadal’s infamous pre-service action – an act which even drew a laugh from chair umpire Jaume Campistol.
Nick was seemingly unhappy that he was already in his service action when the 20-second service clock expired.
Quickly he impersonated Nadal – complete with face wipes and picking out a ‘wedgie’ – likely referencing the Spaniard’s notoriously long-winded service action.
Nadal has throughout his career faced criticism over slow play and with tensions already existing between the pair, the two could meet in the fourth round of the Australian Open on Monday.
Asked to explain the incident in the press-conference Kyrgios responded:
“I know what you’re getting at (smiling).
“I started my service motion. There wasn’t any extracurricular activities I was doing before my serve to waste time.
“I mean, it happened. That’s the ref’s discretion whether I went over the clock or not. It really didn’t matter too much.”
Kyrgios’ opponent of the match Simon also got in the fun, performing his own Nadal personation after receiving his on time violation in the third set — much to Kyrgios’ delight.
Kyrgios was asked afterwards whose impression was better, with the Australian remarking: “I don’t wear underwear, so… Probably Gilles”
Nadal, meanwhile, was told of the incident after defeating Federico Delbonis in straight sets. The Spaniard insisted: “I really don’t care”.
“I am here to play tennis. Honestly, I don’t care at all. If was funny, good. That’s it.”
Nick Kyrgios belted his way past Gilles Simon 6-2, 6-4, 4-6, 7-5 to reach the third round of the Australian Open.
He will next meet Russian 16th seed Karen Khachanov, who found himself 6/8 down in the fifth-set tie-break before coming back to defeat Swede Mikael Ymer 6-2, 2-6, 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (10-8).
Nadal, on the other hand, defeated Federico Delbonis 6-3, 7-6 (4), 6-1 in a second round tie. He’ll next play fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta, who beat Peter Gojowczyk of Germany.
