NewsBite

‘It’s just style’: Nick Kyrgios defends Wimbledon commentary outfits

Nick Kyrgios has been accused of trolling Wimbledon and Great Britain after his eye-catching outfits caused a stir at the grand slam.

Nick Kyrgios kept it casual at Wimbledon.
Nick Kyrgios kept it casual at Wimbledon.

Nick Kyrgios has never been one to conform to the norms, and his choices of clothing at Wimbledon are no different.

The controversial Aussie, 29, had BBC TV viewers in stitches when he wore a massive Stone Island puffer coat and cap beside Centre Court for his punditry duties — in the middle of British summertime.

One fan wrote on X: “Nick Kyrgios absolutely trolling the British summer.”

He even wore a Boston Celtics hoodie on set following his beloved basketball team’s heroic NBA Championship win last month.

The casual look is a stark contrast from the more formal attire of his Wimbledon BBC colleagues, including suited-and-booted Tim Henman and John McEnroe.

With improved weather after a wet and dreary Wimbledon Championships, commentator Nick Mullins cheekily referenced the infamous jacket.

Nick Kyrgios is sporting some casual looks at Wimbledon.
Nick Kyrgios is sporting some casual looks at Wimbledon.

But Kyrgios, who is set to return from wrist surgery next month, gave a very plausible and considered explanation behind his on-screen outfits at Wimbledon.

Mullins said: “One or two threatening clouds but nothing significant and the roof is open and it feels almost summer-ish.

“Nick has not got his big puffer jacket on which is always a sign of our climate.”

Aussie duo blow up at 'worst call ever' at Wimbledon

But a laughing Kyrgios on co-commentary replied: “No, that’s just style.

“We gotta try and appeal to the younger fans, you know?

“They’ll understand where I’m going with that.”

Mullins asked: “What’s wrong with a collar and tie?”

And Kyrgios added: “No, I love it. I don’t mind a bit of old school too but need to find that balance in this sport.”

Kyrgios wore puffer jackets and hoodies in commentary.
Kyrgios wore puffer jackets and hoodies in commentary.

Kyrgios was also quizzed on his gear by McEnroe.

The outspoken three-time Wimbledon champ sarcastically quipped: “You’re so dressed up.

“Give me a break he’s cold come on. When are you going to step up and get dressed up? You’re a good-looking guy. You are.

“When are you going to dress up and wear a suit?”

And Kyrgios finally relented and conceded: “Sometimes, maybe for the final, let’s see.”

John McEnroe has a laugh with Kyrgios at Wimbledon. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
John McEnroe has a laugh with Kyrgios at Wimbledon. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

The BBC were forced to defend their decision to employ Kyrgios, who escaped a criminal record despite pleading guilty to assaulting his ex-girlfriend.

The 2022 runner-up, though, has added plenty of enthusiasm and energy to the BBC commentary team, weighing in on Taylor Fritz’s “have a nice flight home” drama.

However, he caused a stir by slamming Andrew Castle for his commentary - soon before joining him on air.

This article originally appeared in The Sun and was reproduced with permission.

Originally published as ‘It’s just style’: Nick Kyrgios defends Wimbledon commentary outfits

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/tennis/its-just-style-nick-kyrgios-defends-wimbledon-commentary-outfits/news-story/c305cd9217c8ad781fb8b35c1cb06670