NICK KYRGIOS has never been one to conform to the norms.
And his choices of clobber at Wimbledon are no different.
Nick Kyrgios gave a good reason for his unconventional Wimbledon outfits[/caption] He even opted for a Boston Celtics hoody live on BBC TV[/caption]The controversial Aussie, 29, had BBC TV viewers in stitches when he wore a massive Stone Island puffer coat and cap beside Centre Court for his punditry duties – in the middle of British summertime.
And he even wore a Boston Celtics hoody on set following his beloved basketball team’s heroic NBA Championship win last month.
The casual look is a stark contrast from the more formal attire of his Wimbledon BBC colleagues – including suited-and-booted Tim Henman and John McEnroe.
With improved weather after a wet and dreary Wimbledon Championships, commentator Nick Mullins cheekily referenced the infamous jacket.
But Kyrgios – who is set to return from secret wrist surgery next month – gave a very plausible and considered explanation behind his on-screen outfits at Wimbledon.
Mullins said: “One or two threatening clouds but nothing significant and the roof is open and it feels almost summer-ish.
“Nick has not got his big puffer jacket on which is always a sign of our climate.”
But a laughing Kyrgios on co-commentary replied: “No, that’s just style.
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“We gotta try and appeal to the younger fans, you know?
“They’ll understand where I’m going with that.”
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Mullins asked: “What’s wrong with a collar and tie?”
And Kyrgios added: “No, I love it. I don’t mind a bit of old school too but need to find that balance in this sport.”
Kyrgios was also quizzed on his gear by McEnroe.
The outspoken three-time Wimbledon champ sarcastically quipped: “You’re so dressed up.
“Give me a break he’s cold come on. When are you going to step up and get dressed up? You’re a good-looking guy. You are.
“When are you going to dress up and wear a suit?”
And Kyrgios finally relented and conceded: “Sometimes, maybe for the final, let’s see.”
The BBC were forced to defend their decision to employ Kyrgios, who escaped a criminal record despite admitting to assaulting his ex-girlfriend.
The 2022 runner-up, though, has added plenty of enthusiasm and energy to the BBC commentary team, weighing in on Taylor Fritz’s “have a nice flight home” drama.
However, he caused a stir by slamming Andrew Castle for his commentary – soon before joining him on air.
The Stone Island coat went down a storm on social media[/caption]Tennis stars’ new careers
PLENTY of tennis stars have stayed involved in the sport since retiring.
But others pursued very different careers. Here are some of the best…
- I reached French Open and Wimbledon finals as a teenager but I quit to become a nun
- I won Wimbledon mixed doubles with my sister but got fed up with English weather so now run luxury B&B
- I was tipped for stardom aged 12 but retrained to become high-flying lawyer
- I earned £9m and won French Open before setting up bistro with Brazilian model girlfriend
- I’m last Frenchman to win Roland Garros, now I’m singer with six albums hitting No1 in charts
- I’m former world No1 but quit aged 29 – instead I went on to play professional poker and golf
- I was destined for the top but swapped lobs for labs as award-winning Harvard physicist