Kyrgios’ mum jumps to son’s defence after criticism for on-court antics

Nick Kyrgios’ mum has jumped to the young tennis star’s defence as he continues to attract criticism for his on-court behaviour after blow-ups during last night's five-set win against Andreas Seppi.

The 19-year-old athlete's journey into the Quarter Finals of the Australian Open has been even more satisfying than last year’s Wimbledon triumph.

But it hasn’t been without drama.

His on-court exploits have divided opinion, even among the game’s greats.

“We need to stamp that out I think, it’s not good for the game and it’s not good for our future tennis players,” former World No 1 Evonne Goolagong Cawley said.

But his mum Nill Kyrgios said it’s just her son’s fighting spirit shining through.

“Every point counts and he believes in that,” Ms Kyrgios said.

“People don’t understand there’s something always going on behind the scenes.”

Kyrgios says he is trying to manage his emotions better.

He now gets a chance to play Rod Laver Arena against world number six Andy Murray tomorrow.