Whenever the discussions unveil Nick Kyrgios‘ name, the first thing that pops into the mind is the image of a controversy magnet. Just a few years ago when the Aussie used to be on top of his game, he often ended up embroiled in some debate or the other. However, ever since he stepped back as a Tennis Channel commentator, his rhythm appears to have changed.

Recently, Nick Kyrgios decided to interact with the fans on Instagram by welcoming their queries with a question sticker. Marking a completely unexpected event for the fans, the Australian tennis star stood up for fellow player Dominic Thiem after a fan criticized Thiem’s recent performances. The fan expressed concern about Thiem “falling off completely,” citing his recent defeats.

Kyrgios, however, didn’t hold back in his response, highlighting Thiem’s wrist injury and the challenges he faced. He said, “No you fell off. Thiem had wrist surgery dude? Do you understand how hard that is? And he is still winning at the highest level?”

Along with that, Kyrgios also presented a true sportsmanship spirit by criticizing the fan for comparing Thiem’s current performance to his past successes, stating, “Like it’s not fair for everyone to keep comparing to how he used to be when he won slams? Like stfu you have no idea what it takes to be a world class athlete.”

Thiem, who recently faced an early exit at the Monte Carlo Masters by losing 6-1, 6-2 against Roberto Bautista Agut, has been going through the hassles of a wrist injury that he recently incurred. Kyrgios’s defense of Thiem showcased a completely different side of his, marking that he could also be the one to show empathy and understanding for co-players.

How Thiem became Nick Kyrgios’ inspiration

This wasn’t the first time when Nick Kyrgios sent a friendly remark towards Dominic Thiem. Recently, the Australian came forward to drop a candid confession about his realization of the difference in his performance level. “It’s a different galaxy. It’s a lot of different things. I had a bit more power, more confidence. I simply played better tennis, it was more fluid. There are a lot of differences, but I’ve stopped comparing myself to the player I was before,” he said.

Kyrgios, coming out of nowhere to drop a response on the tweet that conveyed this admission, wrote, “Inspiration to me.” As Kyrgios continues to be a positive voice for co-players, his previous image of being a controversial magnet has started to wipe off, being replaced with a new and responsible one.

ALSO READ: ‘Bossy’ Serena Williams Made Nick Kyrgios ‘Uncomfortable’ With Her Energy as the Aussie Star Narrates Rare Experience