Kyrgios pulls out of Rio over ‘unjust treatment’
Nick Kyrgios has pulled out of the running for a spot at the Rio 2016 Olympics due to the Australian Olympic Committee’s (AOC) “unfair and unjust treatment” of him.
Kyrgios has been embroiled in a war of words with Australia’s chef de mission Kitty Chiller, who has voiced concerns over selecting Kyrgios due to his on-court behaviour.
But Kyrgios has made the AOC’s decision for it, saying he would not be available for selection.
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“AOC’s unfair and unjust treatment of me over the last four weeks, as well as the organisation’s crystal clear position on whether they want me to be a part of the Australian Olympic team, has solidified my final decision,” Kyrgios said in a statement on his website.
Kitty Chiller was particularly vocal in her warnings towards Kyrgios. Photo: Getty
“While I have received assurances from Tennis Australia that I will be nominated for the Olympic team, the AOC has chosen to publicly and privately disparage me.
“Not one member of the AOC has reached out to me, my family, my team, or representatives of Tennis Australia, asking for a meeting or the opportunity to discuss their concerns.
“The AOC’s unwarranted attacks on me demonstrate the organisation’s inability to understand the circumstances surrounding highly competitive sports.
“I also don’t want the AOC’s treatment of me to become a distraction and negatively affect the Australian Olympic team.”
Kyrgios said he was “extremely disappointed” to have to make this decision after planning much of his 2016 schedule around the Rio Games, but hopes he can compete in four years time.
“I am grateful to Tennis Australia for standing by me through this process and nominating me for the team,” he said.
“I also want to thank the public and the members of the media who have voiced their support.
“I am a proud Australian and have always loved representing my country. I am fortunate to be young enough to hopefully have a chance to wear the green and gold at the Olympics in the future.
“I hope that in four years I will find myself in the position to be a part of the Australian Olympic team.
“I would like to wish every athlete representing Australia the best of luck this August and will be following their progress and supporting and cheering them from afar.”