“Everywhere I Play the Stadiums are Sold Out”- Nick Kyrgios Hits Back at Pat Rafter

Nick Kyrgios hits back at former world No.1 Australian Pat Rafter for questioning the ATP over failure to suspend him after his latest outburst during the Cincinnati Open 2019 in which the hot-headed Australian denounced the Irish umpire, Fergus Murphy, a “potato” and a “f***ing tool”.

Pat Rafter had said in an interview that he didn’t understand why Nick Kyrgios has not been banned by the ATP following a series of ugly tantrums this year.

However, Nick Kyrgios took a dig on Rafter for drying out his compatriots as he explained to him why the ATP has still not suspended him. The ‘king of controversies’ elucidated that the events earn a lot of money because of him.

The Australian directed a tweet towards Pat Rafter and wrote, “Probably because everywhere I play the stadiums are sold out, and the event makes money with me around? Not surprised rafter has commented on this topic, the guy loves hanging fellow Aussies out to dry. Enjoy staying relevant champ.”

Pat Rafter said during the ATP Cup 2020 draw ceremony in Sydney on Monday, “It’s an interesting one, I don’t understand why it (the suspension) hasn’t happened.”

The Australian further criticized the ATP as he suggested that it looks like Kyrgios should be suspended on paper but wondered if ATP’s selfishness could save Kyrgios.

“There’s obviously something more going on behind the scenes, I don’t know, on paper, it looks like he should be suspended but you know, I don’t know,” Rafter said.

Rafter added: “That’s another thing to look at, isn’t it? he draws a crowd. At what point do you say a crowd’s more important – or do you try to uphold a certain protocol and a standard for the players to adhere to. I don’t know where he’s at, and I don’t think most people do. So what does Nick need? Not for me to answer.”