In May, the world number one, Jannik Sinner, officially announced what had been rumored in tennis circles for some time. The Italian confirmed his relationship with 25-year-old Russian player Anna Kalinskaya, who is currently ranked 15th in the WTA rankings. The relationship between these top players immediately made headlines.
Kyrgios Stirred Up Trouble Again by Insulting Sinner's Girlfriend
Anna Kalinskaya was previously Nick Kyrgios’ girlfriend. According to media reports, the couple split in 2020, and the topic had largely been forgotten. However, Kyrgios decided to reignite the controversy. Under a photo of him and Kalinskaya posted by a fan on social media, Kyrgios commented: "Second serve".
Though the comment quickly disappeared from X (formerly Twitter), tennis fans still expressed their disgust at Kyrgios’ behavior. "Disgusting that Kyrgios continues to show his true nature" - wrote one fan. "Objectifying Anna, as if she were a possession, just to stir interaction on Twitter is equally disgusting" - another added.
The Australian was accused of sexism and misogyny. Ironically, the scandal broke just hours before the women’s singles final at the US Open, which Kyrgios was commentating for ESPN. The broadcaster faced heavy criticism for allowing Kyrgios on air. "Nick Kyrgios commentating on the US Open women’s final just hours after making a sexist comment about a top WTA player is absolutely crazy" - remarked one fan.
Honestly, I was a bit surprised that ESPN didn’t pull Nick Kyrgios off the air halfway through the #USOpen final, considering his recent derogatory tweet about a WTA player. Given his history of demeaning women, women’s tennis, and WTA players, his hiring was questionable
- tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg said.
Nick Kyrgios quickly tried to turn the situation into a joke. "Don’t you find it funny how fast people react to just a few words or emojis?" - the Australian wrote, later posting a photo surrounded by women, including his current partner.
The insult to Anna Kalinskaya has also reached her home country. Former Russian tennis player Svetlana Kuznetsova commented on the matter.
I think it goes without saying that this was an extremely brutal attack. The guy clearly can't forgive his ex-girlfriend for being with a much more accomplished tennis player than him, and now he's harassing her and Jannik with his comments. I believe the Tour should have a joker who prioritizes fun and humor over rules. But this is way too much. What kind of jerk writes something like that? Insulting and degrading a woman is below rock bottom
- she wrote on her Telegram channel.
Anna Kalinskaya will likely be in Jannik Sinner’s box during the US Open final, which will take place on Sunday at 8:00 PM Polish time. The Italian's opponent will be American Taylor Fritz.
