Tanking allegations are again being levelled at enigmatic Australian Nick Kyrgios after he crashed out of Wimbledon with a 6-1 7-6 (7-3) 6-4 loss to impressive Japanese star Kei Nishikori.
Kyrgios surrendered the first set in 16 minutes, was warned for unsportsmanlike behaviour after launching a ball into the stands in frustration in the second.
The 15th seed did save three match points in the third set before Nishikori put the Canberran out of his misery.
MORE: Wimbledon 2018: Nick Kyrgios destroys Marion Bartoli in response to 'pathetic' jibe |
It was another puzzling performance to add to the immensely talented Kyrgios’ career list as commentators and fans openly questioned his desire, while the man himself said he was 'pissed off' post-match.
Is that the towel before or after Kyrgios threw it in let's be honest. pic.twitter.com/39DQNxeSrm
— Pseudo McEnroe (@McEnroeTweets) July 7, 2018
Something weve seen far too often from Nick Kyrgios. His mind seems to wander so easily, you have to question if he REALLY wants it. Shame, hes a super talent, but hes as frustrating and brilliant in equal measure #Wimbledon
— JR (@J_R_2018) July 7, 2018
His capitulation capped a horror day for Australia at the All England club as the other four remaining singles hopes - Ash Barty, Matt Ebden, Alex De Minaur and Daria Gavrilova - all lost their third-round matches.
Barty was the first to depart after blowing an early 4-1 lead in the opening set en route to a 7-5 6-3 loss to Russia’s Daria Kasatkina.
The error-riddled performance signalled a disappointing end to a stellar grass-court season for the Queenslander, who was considered a darkhorse in the women’s draw by pundits.
De Minaur was next to exit as a ruthless Rafael Nadal roared to a 6-1 6-2 6-4 victory on centre court.
The 19-year-old was no match for the legendary Spaniard but will be better for the experience in his maiden Wimbledon campaign.
Ebden exited with a 6-1 6-7 (3-7) 6-3 7-6 (7-2) loss to French veteran Gilles Simon while Daria Gavrilova crashed out with a 6-3 6-1 loss to Aliaksandra Sasnovich.
