‘Got taught a lesson’: Nick Kyrgios claps back as tennis’ biggest rivalry reignites

Nick Kyrgios has reignited his feud with Greek rival Stefanos Tsitsipas by clapping back at claims the Aussie acted like a “clown” during their fiery Wimbledon clash last year.

Tsitsipas was quoted by Greek news outlet Tromaktiko saying it was Kyrgios “who broke” the duo’s formerly friendly relationship in recent times.

Their friendship spiralled after their heated third-round Wimbledon match where Kyrgios called for Tsitsipas to be kicked out of the tournament.

“I didn’t do anything,” Tsitsipas said, in English translation.

“I was only trying to compete, while he was playing the clown. It also depends on how he wakes up each day.”

But on Sunday, Kyrgios laughed off Tsitsipas’ memories of their infamous encounter, claiming he “taught a lesson” to his rival.

“Right….. this the match he hit someone in the crowd….. belted another ball out of the stadium and got taught a lesson in front of another full stadium…..” Kyrgios posted.

Both players were fined for their antics at Wimbledon, with Tsitsipas taking the biggest hit of more than $15,000 while Kyrgios coughed up more than $5000.

There’s been no love lost between Kyrgios and Tsitsipas despite their friendship as tennis juniors.

In the Break Point documentary, the Greek star said his Aussie rival became a “devil when he enters the court”, and took a dig at Kyrgios earlier this year when he withdrew from the United Cup citing injury.

“It is not a surprise, I hope he enjoys his holidays,” Tsitsipas said from Perth.

Tsitsipas has also labelled Kyrgios a “bully” and a player with “an evil side” in previous press conferences.

But the duo were forced to try and put aside their differences late last year when they were paired up for doubles at a big money Saudi Arabia tournament.

In more fine Twitter form, Kyrgios also took a dig at his critics over eating in a post-match press conference.

Sharing photos of Czech young gun Tomas Machac eating a chocolate bar at the Davis Cup qualifiers while speaking to media, Kyrgios hit out at double standards.

“I remember when I had sushi after a 4 hour match at Wimbledon. Was deemed disrespectful,” he posted with a laughing emoji.

Kyrgios remains sidelined from tennis after undergoing a procedure on his knee in recent weeks.

A return to play date has yet to be revealed for the top ranked Aussie star.