Kyrgios criticizes ATP for covering up Sinner’s scandal, saying there’s no need to cheat by talking to him directly

Kyrgios has always been outspoken, and his recent comments about Sinner and the ATP have caused a new wave of discussion in tennis circles. Renowned for his remarkable talent and volatile character, Kyrgios openly addressed the complex dynamics between him and the Italian prodigy, while also drawing attention for accusing the ATP of partiality in a controversial doping incident.

Last March, Sinner tested positive twice for banned substances. At that time, Kyrgios was one of the harshest critics of how the case was handled: “It’s ridiculous—whether it was accidental or deliberate. If you test positive twice for steroids... you should be banned for two years. Your performance was enhanced. ‘Massage cream’? — Ha, that’s a joke.” However, after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s (ITIA) decision, Sinner was ultimately suspended for three months in February this year.

Sinner returned just before the Italian Open and the French Open, went on to win Wimbledon, reached the US Open final this year, and recently claimed the Beijing China Open title. Despite his impressive results, Kyrgios recently took another jab during a show, mentioning the “shadowy” impression he has of the Italian player. When asked if he had conflicts with any players, the Australian replied:

“There are definitely a few. Many people like me in the locker room, but there are some I just can’t stand. For example, my relationship with Sinner is quite tense right now.” He elaborated: “Especially after that doping incident, I really don’t get along with certain people.” However, when discussing Sinner’s skills, Kyrgios acknowledged: “He was the world number one at the time, no doubt he’s outstanding. He and Carlos Alcaraz will carry this sport for the next 10 to 15 years.”

But Kyrgios didn’t stop there; he shifted the topic to the more controversial issue—the ATP’s handling of Sinner’s doping case. Kyrgios bluntly stated: “It’s obvious they are protecting him to some extent. The ATP CEO and key figures are almost all Italian. The whole story looks like nonsense to me.”

In his view, the way this case was managed is an insult to all players who compete cleanly, and he hopes Sinner learns a lesson from it. Yet, Kyrgios also insisted that he “will become one of the greatest tennis players in history.”

This year, both Sinner and Alcaraz have performed excellently. Although Sinner’s world ranking has dropped to second, he still won three titles in 2025 (including Wimbledon), despite a three-month suspension. Sinner’s season record stands at 43 wins and 6 losses, while Spaniard Alcaraz holds 67 wins and 7 losses, having secured 8 titles and currently ranked number one in the world.

Kyrgios and Sinner have faced each other only once—at the 2022 Miami Open, where Sinner defeated the Australian 7-6(3), 6-3. Reflecting on the Italian’s development, Kyrgios said: “Honestly, I would tell him face to face: I think you’re fully capable of reaching the top without those things. If it was truly accidental, then fine; but if not, I’d say, brother, you don’t need that. We played a very close match, and I thought this kid is going to be amazing. So I believe he can do it purely on his own merit.”

Kyrgios believes Sinner’s hitting ability is extremely strong, with almost no weaknesses. In his eyes, Alcaraz and Sinner are evenly matched: “Neither of them has flaws. To beat them, you have to raise your level to an insane degree.”

When asked who is more likely to surpass Djokovic’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles, Kyrgios answered: “At Alcaraz’s current pace, he could do it. He’s only 22 and already has 6 Grand Slams. Winning two a year, he definitely has a chance.”

So, do you agree with Kyrgios’ opinion? Or do you think Sinner has the edge in this new generation rivalry? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Spark)