Roger Federer urges ATP to not suspend Nick Kyrgios after latest controversy

Roger Federer has defended Nick Kyrgios, saying that it would be wrong to suspend him despite his latest high-profile tantrum at the Italian Open.

Kyrgios smashed a racket, threw a chair, and stormed off court, defaulting his match against Casper Ruud, after being involved with an angry altercation with a spectator.

The Australian has already had a two-month ban for ‘tanking’ at the Shanghai Masters, but Federer hopes they authorities take a more lenient view with him this time.

“I don’t think he should be suspended,” Federer said. “He walked off the court. What did he do? He hurt a chair? That’s not enough for me.

RELATED: WATCH: Nick Kyrgios smashes racket, throws chair, and quits Italian Open mid-match

“I don’t know if he’s on probation or not from his Shanghai thing. If that’s the case, then obviously you can maybe look into it. If that’s run its course, I don’t think he should be suspended.”

Follow us on Twitter @T365Official and like our Facebook page.

More from Tennis365:

• • FEATURE: Meet Roy Erskine, Andy Murray’s grandfather and former professional footballer

  • T365 Recall: When Andy Murray cemented his legacy during brilliant 2016 season

  • EXCLUSIVE: Annabel Croft on the ‘identity crisis’ facing the women’s game

  • EXCLUSIVE: Annabel Croft picks out ‘breath of fresh air’ Bianca Andreescu as her player to watch in 2019

  • Italian Open: Facts and figures about the ATP and WTA tournament