Officials take action after 'unacceptable' Nick Kyrgios incident

Nick Kyrgios claimed that he was a victim of a racial slur during his match against Andy Murray, where he was defeated in straight sets at the Stuttgart Open on Saturday. Tournament organisers confirmed that the matter is open for investigation. According to the statement, any kind of discrimination is unacceptable, so the incident is currently under investigation." After losing the first set tie-break 7-5, Kyrgios was enraged, so he smashed his racquet on the ground to receive a point penalty. Kyrgios was charged with unsportsmanlike conduct in the second set, and a game penalty was given away. He consistently let out his frustration upon the umpire before he finally lost the match 7-6(5) 6-2.

Murray, whose body injuries have continually plagued him, managed to outclass the Australian, despite an injured hip. The 27-year-old took to Instagram to clarify that a racial slur motivated his on-court behaviour and the situation was "messed up". He said, "When is this going to stop? Dealing with racial slurs from the crowd?" He admitted that he was wrong, but someone in the crowd addressed him as "black sheep", which he deemed unacceptable. His conduct was a way of standing up for himself, but he got penalised for doing so, as explained by the American. 

Is Nick's behaviour justified?

The tournament organisers announced the investigation on Sunday, and there is a statement on the tournament's official website that reads, "We stand for creating an inclusive environment for all. Discrimination of any kind is not tolerated." The website further stresses the importance of equality, comparing it to core values like fairness, tolerance and team spirit. As a result, discriminating actions exhibited by the spectators will not be accepted. Despite his reputation as a hothead, the tournament expressed empathy and regret towards Nick Kyrgios and his team before opening the investigation. 

Nick is no stranger to controversy and gossip. He has a long history of instances where he has shown traces of impudence. He had an ugly meltdown at the Miami Open in March and was penalised. He had angrily berated the chair umpire and violated other codes in a match where he lost to Jannik Sinner in straight sets. He was fined $35000 for his behaviour in that fourth-round match. The next round in the Queen's Club Championships will feature Murray and Sonego as they attempt to advance to the round of 16.