In a candid revelation, Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios recently shared his battle with mental health issues, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. Kyrgios, now 28 years old, opened up about his troubled period in 2019, which included defaulted from the Rome Masters for throwing a chair and receiving fines totaling £89,000 ($113,000) for unsportsmanlike conduct at the Cincinnati Masters. He subsequently handed a suspended 16-week ban.
Reflecting on his experience during Wimbledon in an episode of BreakPoint last year, Kyrgios spoke about the pressure and expectations he faced, admitting that he struggled with his mental well-being. He revealed that he was in a dark place during 2019, despising the person he had become. The weight of scrutiny and the constant spotlight led him to turn to drinking and abusing drugs, causing a strain on his relationships with family and friends.
Kyrgios Struggles Evident Physically
Kyrgios shared that his struggles were evident physically as well, with scars covering his arm. To conceal these scars, he decided to get an arm sleeve tattoo. The tennis star went on to disclose that he had seriously contemplated suicide during this difficult period. Following a loss at Wimbledon, Kyrgios woke up to find his father, Giorgos, by his side, deeply emotional and in tears.
The revelations provide a glimpse into the challenges faced by high-profile athletes and the toll that intense pressure can take on their mental health. Kyrgios’ story serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking support and open conversations surrounding mental health in sports and beyond. By sharing his experiences, Kyrgios hopes to shed light on the struggles many athletes face behind the scenes and encourage a greater understanding and empathy for mental health issues.