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4th July 2023
09:43am BST
Nick Kyrgios has been told not to return to Wimbledon following his last-minute withdrawal.
Kyrgios announced that he was no longer competing in the Grand Slam the day before his first round match against Belgian David Goffin, saying that a wrist injury was the reason behind his sudden withdrawal.
"I’m really sad to say that I have to withdraw from Wimbledon this year," the Australian said on Instagram.
“During my comeback, I experienced some pain in my wrist during Mallorca. As a precaution, I had it scanned and it came back showing a torn ligament in my wrist.
“I tried everything to be able to play and I am disappointed to say that I just didn’t have enough time to manage it before Wimbledon.
“I’ll be back and as always, I appreciate the support from all my fans.”
Despite his apologies, many have criticised the 28-year-old for his late departure including popular tennis commentator Chris Goldsmith, who told the 28-year-old not to bother returning.
“Nick Kyrgios. Pulls out of Wimbledon at the last minute. Pulls out of Mallorca 1 week ago. Pulls out of Halle 2 weeks ago. Struggles in Stuttgart. Not played since Tokyo 2022,” he tweeted.
“Anyone shocked? Not really. Said earlier tennis is a job and not fussed about coming back.”
He added: "Those that say Nick Kyrgios is good for tennis are wrong. No integrity whatsoever. Pulls out of singles and doubles a few hours before tournament.
"Another ALT [lucky loser] into Qualifying missed a place, all because he likes to mess about. Don't come back to SW19."
The Australian is yet to respond to the comments so far.
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