Tennis, a sport renowned for its elegance and sophistication, has produced some of the finest athletes on the planet. From the clay courts of Roland-Garros to the manicured lawns of Wimbledon, legends of the sport have captivated audiences with breathtaking shots and unforgettable matches.
However, not all athletes are celebrated. Some have garnered as much (if not more) dislike as admiration. Whether it is due to their on-court behavior, relationship with fans and officials, or their off-court antics, these players have etched their names in the annals of tennis as equally talented and polemical figures.
The world of men’s tennis is not short of drama and villains. Among the celebrated aces and graceful athletes, there are also some infamous names. These are players who, despite their undeniable talent, can’t escape a cloud of disapproval from some quarters. Here’s a look at the most hated men’s tennis players of all time.
20. Denis Shapovalov
Denis Shapovalov, a Canadian professional tennis player, has stirred controversy on multiple occasions, which may have led to him being disliked or even hated by some.
One of the significant incidents occurred during the Italian Open in Rome, where Shapovalov was playing against Lorenzo Sonego, a native of Turin, Italy. During the match, Shapovalov, who was down three points to four in the second set, took issue with a call on the court. In response, he told the entire stadium of Italians to “shut the f—k up!” This kind of behavior is generally seen as unsportsmanlike and disrespectful, especially when it’s directed towards the audience, which could have led to a negative perception of Shapovalov.
Another incident that could have contributed to Shapovalov’s dislike was his criticism of the French Open’s scheduling. After losing a grueling five-hour match against Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena, Shapovalov was scheduled to play doubles with India’s Rohan Bopanna later the same day. He publicly blasted the French Open’s scheduling, calling it “complete trash” and “unacceptable”. While some might empathize with his frustration, others could view his comments as unprofessional and disrespectful towards the organizers of the tournament.
Shapovalov’s playing style may also be a source of contention. Despite his talent and recent break into the top 10, his match against Baena saw him committing 106 unforced errors while coming to the net 103 times, an unusual tactic on slow clay courts. This could be seen as a reckless or even arrogant approach to the game, which might not sit well with traditional tennis fans.
19. Mikael Ymer
Mikael Ymer, a Swedish professional tennis player, has unfortunately garnered a negative reputation among tennis fans, particularly in his home country of Sweden. Several incidents and reasons have contributed to this unfavorable perception.
Firstly, Ymer’s on-court behavior has contributed to his unpopularity. He has been known to display a cocky and arrogant persona, which has not resonated well with fans. A notable incident occurred during the Lyon Open round of 16 match against Frenchman Arthur Fils. Ymer, in a fit of fury, smashed his racquet to pieces on the umpire’s chair after a heated disagreement over a line call. This outburst led to his disqualification from the match. Such behavior is often perceived as unsportsmanlike and disrespectful, leading many to dislike him.
Furthermore, Ymer’s lack of success compared to his counterparts has also played a role in his unpopularity. While he has been the highest-ranked Swedish tennis player since 2019 and has consistently stayed in the top 100, his performance pales compared to the achievements of past Swedish tennis stars like Robin Soderling. This has led to disappointment among fans who had higher expectations for Ymer’s career.
Additionally, Ymer’s recent retirement announcement has raised eyebrows and fueled further dislike towards him. He retired from professional tennis shortly after serving an 18-month doping ban. Despite protesting his innocence, the timing of his retirement has raised suspicions among fans and the tennis community. This sudden decision has left many questioning his integrity and commitment to the sport.
18. Marin Cilic
Marin Cilic, a professional tennis player from Croatia, has had a successful career, including winning the US Open in 2014. However, he has not always been a crowd favorite. The reasons for this are multifaceted and complex, and it’s important to note that these are perceptions and not necessarily reflective of Cilic’s character or performance.
- Game Style: Cilic’s style of play has often been described as ‘ball-bashing’, which is not always appreciated by tennis purists. His game is perceived as lacking variety, and his shot selection is often criticized as being ‘braindead.’ His groundstrokes are also considered ‘ugly’ by some, which could contribute to his lack of popularity.
- Attitude and Personality: Cilic has been described as lethargic on the court and lacking a ‘Plan B’ when things don’t go as planned. This perceived lack of effort and adaptability can be off-putting to fans. Off the court, his personality has been described as less vibrant than that of other players. He is not known for being the life of the party, which may make him less relatable or appealing to fans.
- Performance Against Top Players: Cilic has a reputation for choking against the ‘big four’ (Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray). This perceived inability to perform under pressure against top competitors can lead to disappointment and frustration among fans.
- Over-hyped: After his Australian Open run, expectations for Cilic were high. When he did not consistently meet these expectations, fans and critics may have felt let down, leading to a negative perception of him.
In summary, while Marin Cilic is a talented tennis player, a combination of perceived issues with his game style, inconsistency, attitude, and performance against top players may have made him less popular among fans. However, it’s important to note that popularity in sports is often subjective and can change over time.
17. Lleyton Hewitt
Lleyton Hewitt, the Australian tennis star, has been a contentious figure in the world of sports for various reasons. His on-court antics and behavior have often been a subject of criticism, leading to him being disliked by many.
One of the primary reasons for the dislike towards Hewitt is his obsession with the movie character Rocky. While this might seem trivial, his constant shouting of “C’mon Rock!” during his matches has been seen as annoying and unnecessary by many spectators and fellow players. This behavior is often perceived as a sign of arrogance and an attempt to intimidate his opponents, which has not been well-received.
However, the most significant reason for Hewitt’s unpopularity stems from a controversial incident during the 2001 US Open. Hewitt was accused of race-baiting, a serious allegation that significantly tarnished his reputation. This incident not only made him a target of criticism but also led many to label him as a racist. His subsequent actions and statements did not do much to dispel this image, further alienating him from fans and fellow players.
Hewitt’s attitude towards representing his country has also been a point of contention. While he has stated that he values the opportunity to represent Australia, even in tournaments that do not contribute to his ranking, this has often been seen as a self-serving statement. Critics argue that Hewitt uses such statements to deflect criticism and portray himself in a positive light.
Furthermore, his interactions with fellow players have also contributed to his unpopularity. His rivalry with players like Robredo and Federer has often been marked by heated exchanges and confrontations, further damaging his public image.
16. Corentin Moutet
Corentin Moutet, a talented 23-year-old left-handed tennis player from Paris, has garnered a controversial reputation in the world of tennis. Despite his skills and rising status in the sport, there are several reasons why Moutet has faced criticism and dislike from both fans and fellow players.
- On-court Behavior: Some critics focus on Moutet’s behavior during matches. He’s occasionally exhibited what some perceive as poor sportsmanship, such as visible frustration or negative reactions to his performance, opposition players, or officials’ decisions. This kind of behavior can turn people off, especially if they view it as unprofessional.
- Emotional Volatility: Corentin Moutet is known for wearing his emotions on his sleeve, both on and off the court. While some enjoy the authenticity and genuine nature of his responses, others might perceive his emotional volatility as a sign of immaturity or lack of professional composure.
- Loss of Concentration: Some fans have noted that Moutet often loses his concentration when things are not going in his favor, leading to losses that could have been avoided. His inability to manage his emotions and focus at critical moments in the game is often seen as a reason for his inconsistency.
- Personal Tastes: Simply put, not everyone will enjoy Moutet’s playing style or personal demeanor. Personal tastes play a big role in how individuals perceive athletes. So, someone who favors a more reserved, disciplined tennis player may not find favor with Moutet’s more expressive and often dramatic approach to the game.
- High Expectations: Lastly, being a young player with a considerable amount of talent, there is a high expectation set on Moutet. When he doesn’t meet those expectations, it can create a sense of disappointment among his fans, which may be misconstrued as dislike.
It’s crucial to remember that while these factors might make him a controversial figure to some, Moutet also has a strong fan base who admire his passion, talent and authenticity. He is known for his resilience, talent, strong groundstrokes, and ability to create spectacular shots – facets that make him an exciting player to watch for many tennis enthusiasts around the globe.
15. Dani Koellerer
Daniel Koellerer, also known as “Crazy Dani,” is a controversial figure in the world of tennis. His professional career, which started in 2002, has been marred by several instances of misconduct and rule violations, leading to widespread dislike and criticism.
One of the primary reasons for the animosity towards Koellerer is his behavior on the court. The Austrian player was suspended twice by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) due to his unacceptable behavior during matches. His first suspension came in 2004, followed by a second one in 2006, which resulted in a six-month ban.
Koellerer’s disregard for the rules and regulations of the sport extended beyond his behavior on the court. In August 2010, he and fellow player Nareyka were placed on two years’ probation after their personal website was found to be listing odds for matches and providing links to betting sites. This was a clear violation of the rules about facilitating betting, which both players admitted to breaking.
However, the most serious offense that led to Koellerer’s widespread dislike was his involvement in match-fixing. In May 2011, he became the first tennis player to be banned for life for attempting to fix matches. The ATP found Koellerer guilty of three violations of the sport’s anti-corruption rules, including contriving or attempting to contrive the outcome of an event.
Despite reaching a career-high of No. 55 in the world rankings and winning six titles on the lower-ranked Challenger circuit, Koellerer’s achievements were overshadowed by his misconduct. His actions not only tarnished his own reputation but also threatened the integrity of the sport. His involvement in match-fixing, in particular, was a severe breach of trust, leading many to view him with disdain.
14. Cameron Norrie
Cameron Norrie seems to generate a mixed bag of reactions from tennis fans and observers. While some appreciate his gameplay, others express strong dislike towards him. The reasons for the negative sentiments are attributed to several factors.
Firstly, Norrie’s playing style is often cited as a reason for the dislike. The way he grinds down and outworks his opponents is likened to David Ferrer, a player celebrated in tennis circles. However, Norrie’s style seems to rub some people the wrong way, possibly due to its perceived monotony or lack of flair.
Secondly, Norrie’s attitude on the court is another factor that contributes to the dislike. Some perceive him as brattish, which could be a turn-off for fans who value sportsmanship and humility in players. His on-court demeanor and reactions, particularly in high-pressure situations, may not endear him to all spectators.
Thirdly, some fans express disappointment over Norrie’s decision to turn pro in 2017 at the age of 22, quitting college before his final NCAA tournament. As the number 1 seed and a dominant player in collegiate tennis, his decision to leave early was seen as a letdown by some, which could have contributed to the negative sentiment.
Fourthly, specific incidents during matches have also fueled the dislike for Norrie. For instance, his actions against Novak Djokovic in Rome and Carlos Alcaraz in Rio were seen as controversial by some fans, further tarnishing his image. The perceived lack of sportsmanship during these incidents may have intensified the dislike towards him.
Lastly, the fact that aggressive top-tier players can dismantle Norrie’s game might also contribute to the negative perception. Some fans may see his game as lacking the robustness or versatility needed to compete at the highest level, leading to a lack of respect or admiration for his gameplay.
13. Carlos Alcaraz
Carlos Alcaraz, a rising star in the world of tennis, has garnered both admiration and criticism from fans and spectators alike. Although he is considered one of the hottest players in the game right now, having achieved a high ranking on the ATP rankings and won the Barcelona Open title, there are some who express a dislike for him.
The reasons for this dislike appear to be primarily subjective and based on personal opinions rather than concrete facts. Some people find him overrated, suggesting that his skills and accomplishments do not merit the praise and attention he receives. This is a common criticism leveled at many successful athletes, and it often stems from high expectations and the pressure to consistently perform at a top level.
Another reason for the dislike towards Alcaraz is related to his on-court behavior. Some fans describe it as childish and express hope that he does not dominate the sport. This kind of criticism is often directed at younger, less experienced players who are still developing their professional demeanor and learning how to navigate the pressures of high-stakes competition.
It’s also worth noting that Alcaraz has expressed a preference for being called “Carlitos” or “Charlie” rather than “Carlos,” which he feels is too serious and makes him feel like he’s done something wrong. This preference has been met with mixed reactions, with some people respecting his wishes and others viewing it as a sign of immaturity or a lack of professionalism.
12. Andy Murray
Andy Murray has garnered both admiration and criticism throughout his career. While many tennis fans appreciate his skill and achievements, there are several reasons why some individuals may dislike or even hate him.
One commonly cited reason for the dislike towards Murray is his playing style. Critics argue that his style of play, particularly under pressure, can be overly defensive and lacking in aggression. This perception is in contrast to players like Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who is known for his attacking style and is generally well-liked. Murray’s emphasis on defense and strategic gameplay has led some to label him as a “pusher,” a term used to describe players who rely on consistency rather than power. However, it’s worth noting that Murray possesses a strong backhand and can finish rallies effectively.
Another factor contributing to the negative perception of Murray is his demeanor both on and off the court. Some people find his personality to be dour and introverted, which can come across as lacking in charisma or excitement. Additionally, Murray has been criticized for his on-court behavior, such as frequently expressing frustration or anger after losing a point. These reactions, although common among many athletes, have led to the perception that he has a bad attitude.
There is also a perception among some tennis fans that Murray receives excessive media attention and hype, particularly from the English language media. Critics suggest that this attention arises from a longing for representation among the top-rank players like Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic. This perception of media bias and favoritism can lead to resentment towards Murray.
Lastly, some individuals may simply dislike Murray due to personal preferences or biases. Tennis fans, like any sports enthusiasts, have their own preferences and may gravitate towards certain players while disliking others. This can be influenced by factors such as playing style or personal connections with other players.
11. Jimmy Connors
Jimmy Connors, an iconic figure in the world of tennis, was a player who evoked strong emotions among his peers and the public alike. Despite being the top-ranked tennis player in the US for 160 consecutive weeks beginning in 1974, Connors had a reputation that was marred by controversy and disapproval. Here are some reasons why he was disliked or even hated by some.
Firstly, Connors’ refusal to play for the U.S. Davis Cup team was a significant point of contention. His decision to opt for big-purse exhibitions over representing his country in the prestigious international team tennis event, which dates back to 1900, was seen as unpatriotic. This decision particularly irked Arthur Ashe, a fellow tennis player who held a powerful sense of patriotism. Ashe could not understand why Connors did not share this sentiment and was vocal about his irritation.
Furthermore, Connors’ personal feud with Arthur Ashe added to his negative image. Ashe was a beloved figure in the tennis world, and Connors being one of the few people who did not care for him did not sit well with many. This animosity was exacerbated when Ashe spearheaded a drive to get Connors banned from the 1974 French Open, a move that Connors likely did not take kindly to.
Connors’ unpopularity was not limited to his home country. He was initially quite disliked in Britain, and his unpopularity in the US reached a peak during the Vilas US Open 1977 final, when he was booed off the court. Connors himself acknowledged this event as the low point of his US Open experiences.
Moreover, Connors’ attitude and demeanor led to widespread dislike for him. He was described as ‘brilliant but craven’, indicating a sense of selfishness or cowardice that his peers did not appreciate. Despite his phenomenal skill and success on the court, his peers often despised him, suggesting a lack of respect or camaraderie within the professional circuit.
Despite these controversies, it is important to note that with time, Jimmy Connors was eventually acknowledged and beloved as a great player, indicating a shift in perception towards his legacy.
10. Stefanos Tsitsipas
Stefanos Tsitsipas has an impressive record on the court. He has won numerous accolades and has multiple career highs in the sport. However, like any public figure, Tsitsipas has faced his share of criticism and negative public sentiment. Below are some incidents or reasons that have contributed to this negative sentiment:
- Bathroom Breaks: One of the primary reasons for dislike towards Tsitsipas revolves around his controversial use of bathroom breaks during matches. Critics argue that he uses these breaks tactically to disrupt the momentum of his opponents. His lengthy break during the 2021 US Open match against Andy Murray drew particular criticism. Murray publicly questioned the legality of these breaks, claiming that the long pauses impacted the flow of the game.
- On-Court Behavior: Tsitsipas has occasionally been criticized for his on-court demeanor. His frustration with his performance has often manifested in ways that are not well-received. For instance, he’s been observed complaining about circumstances both on and off the court, which only seems to upset him further. A notable incident occurred during the ATP Cup, where Tsitsipas lashed out with his racket in frustration after losing the opening set, unintentionally hurting his father and coach, Apostolos Tsitsipas. Despite claiming it was an accident, this incident highlighted Tsitsipas’s struggle to control his emotions during matches, which has been a significant part of his negative reputation.
- Personal Remarks: His attitude and personal remarks off the court have also drawn criticism. He’s been deemed arrogant by some for his unconventional thoughts and ideas, which he frequently shares on his social media channels. Tsitsipas is known for his introspective and philosophical nature, which can sometimes be viewed as pretentious or over-the-top.
- Treatment of Ball Kids: Tsitsipas has been criticized for his treatment of ball kids, specifically following a controversial incident at the Australian Open in January 2023. In an incident that nearly led to his disqualification, Tsitsipas, in a fit of anger after losing a point to his opponent Jiri Lehecka, furiously hit a ball that narrowly missed a ball kid. The ball kid had moved to collect the wayward ball, unaware of Tsitsipas’s impending action. The incident, which was a close call, sparked controversy and raised questions about the superstar’s conduct on court, particularly his lack of awareness and consideration for the ball kids.
- Accusations of Cheating: Tsitsipas has also been accused of receiving coaching during games, which is against the rules of tennis. In particular, he was suspected of getting tactical advice from his father, Apostolos Tsitsipas, through signals during matches.
However, it is essential to put these criticisms in context. Tsitsipas is still a relatively young player and is navigating the challenges that come with being thrust into the global spotlight. Much of the negative sentiment toward him can be attributed to cultural misunderstandings, miscommunication, or high expectations. His actions should also not necessarily overshadow his immense talent and potential and the positive contributions he has made to the sport.
9. Marcelo Rios
Marcelo Rios, a former world No. 1 tennis player from Chile, has been widely disliked and even hated in the world of tennis. Despite his impressive skills on the court, especially on clay, his off-court behavior has often overshadowed his sporting prowess.
One of the main reasons for this widespread dislike was his boorish behavior. He earned the title “The Most Hated Man In Tennis” from Sports Illustrated, which speaks volumes about his reputation in the tennis community.
Rios was never afraid to take shots at other players, which added to his negative image. For instance, he once made a comment about Argentina’s great Guillermo Vilas, stating, “I’ve been compared to Vilas for a while now. I don’t know him. All I know is that he was No. 2 and I’m No. 1.” This kind of dismissive attitude towards his peers did not sit well with many in the tennis world.
Additionally, his behavior was described as “just plain horrible” by many who knew him. In Scoop Malinowski’s book “Marcelo Rios: The Man We Barely Knew,” Ilie Nastase described him as “the worst prick I ever met,” adding that “the players of today probably have the same opinion of him.” This indicates that his behavior was not only disliked by his contemporaries but also by the younger generation of players.
Moreover, Rios failed to win a Grand Slam despite reaching the top rank. This failure, coupled with his unpleasant behavior, contributed to the negative perception of him. Some might see his failure to secure a Grand Slam as a form of poetic justice or karma for his ill manners.
8. Fabio Fognini
Fabio Fognini has garnered both admiration and disdain over the past decade. While some may appreciate his success on the court, there are several reasons why he is disliked or even hated by certain individuals.
One of the primary factors contributing to the negative perception of Fognini is his on-court behavior. He is notorious for his fiery temper and outbursts, often directing verbal abuse towards officials, opponents, and even himself. Such behavior not only displays a lack of sportsmanship but also disrupts the flow of the game and creates a hostile atmosphere. Fognini’s frequent outbursts have led to fines and disciplinary actions, tarnishing his reputation and making him a divisive figure in the tennis community.
Furthermore, in 2017, Fognini was involved in a shameful incident at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. He was accused of verbally abusing the chair umpire, Louise Engzell, during a first-round singles loss to his fellow Italian, Stefano Travaglia. Fognini reportedly used misogynistic slurs in Italian against Engzell, a respected chair umpire from Sweden. This incident came to light before his third-round doubles match, which resulted in his departure from the tournament in disgrace.
Another reason for Fognini’s unpopularity is his tendency to make controversial and offensive statements off the court. For instance, during a match at Wimbledon in 2019, he expressed a wish for a bomb to explode at the club, which was met with widespread condemnation. Such remarks are not only insensitive but also highlight a lack of maturity and respect for the sport and its traditions.
It is important to note that Fognini’s behavior has consequences beyond personal opinion. His actions have resulted in fines, bans, and negative publicity for both himself and the tournaments he participates in. This not only affects his own career but also impacts the overall image of tennis and its players.
7. Lukas Rosol
Lukas Rosol has been a prominent figure in the world of tennis, particularly due to his stunning victory over Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon in 2012. However, he is also known for being one of the most controversial and disliked figures on the tour, according to several players, including former world number one Andy Murray.
One of the most notable incidents that fueled the dislike towards Rosol occurred during a match against Andy Murray. According to reports, during a rain-delayed quarterfinal in Munich, Rosol allegedly shoulder-charged Murray during a changeover. This act was perceived as deliberate and unsportsmanlike, leading to a verbal altercation between the two players. Murray accused Rosol of intentionally bumping into him without reason, an accusation that Rosol did not apologize for. This incident required intervention from ATP supervisor Gerry Armstrong, further highlighting the severity of the situation.
In addition to this, Murray made a statement that resonated with many in the tennis community. He told Rosol, “No one likes you on the tour. Everyone hates you.” This statement, while made in the heat of the moment, reflected the sentiments of many players towards Rosol. Rosol’s behavior and attitude on the court have often been perceived as disrespectful and provocative, leading to his unpopularity among his peers.
Rosol’s reputation for being involved in controversy has only exacerbated the negative feelings towards him. Many players have reported having issues with Rosol’s behavior, and his inability to maintain cordial relationships with his peers has further isolated him.
6. Daniil Medvedev
Daniil Medvedev has been subject to considerable backlash from various sections of the fanbase. Despite his undeniable talent and the victories he has secured against some of the greatest players, Medvedev’s attitude has significantly contributed to the negative perception.
One of the primary reasons for this dislike is Medvedev’s perceived ‘bad-boy’ attitude. While some fans find this rebellious spirit appealing, many others find it off-putting. His demeanor on the court, often described as contemptuous and aggressive, has been a source of discontent among fans. This attitude was particularly noticeable throughout tournaments, where his behavior towards those around him became increasingly hostile.
Additionally, his interactions with other players have further worsened his image. For instance, Medvedev’s hostile attitude towards fellow player Tsitsipas has not been well-received by fans. His statement that he doesn’t take the Greek player seriously has further fueled the negative perception.
Moreover, some fans argue that the backlash Medvedev faces is because he doesn’t fit the traditional mold of a tennis player. This argument suggests that his unconventional behavior and attitude are seen as a deviation from the norm, making it difficult for some fans to accept him.
5. John McEnroe
John McEnroe, while being a celebrated tennis player with numerous Grand Slam titles and championships under his belt, is also widely known for his notorious behavior on the court. His temper tantrums and foul language have often overshadowed his impressive tennis skills, making him one of the most hated tennis players of all time.
One of the main reasons for the strong dislike towards McEnroe is his lack of sportsmanship. His on-court outbursts were infamous. For instance, at the 1984 Stockholm match, he called the official a jerk before smashing a tray of drinks with his racquet. This kind of behavior was not only disrespectful to the officials but also to the game itself.
Another significant incident that impacted McEnroe’s public image occurred in 1981. During the Wimbledon championships that year, McEnroe vehemently disputed an umpire’s call in his quarterfinal match against Tom Gullikson. This display of anger, infamously characterized as the “You cannot be serious!” outburst, struck a nerve with many fans and observers, especially the traditionally stoic and etiquette-conscious Wimbledon crowd. As a result, McEnroe garnered a reputation for unsportsmanlike behavior, fuelling a wave of negative public sentiment that shadowed his impressive tennis career.
Moreover, McEnroe’s comments about other players, particularly his controversial remarks about Emma Raducanu, have garnered significant backlash. His speculation that Raducanu could not handle the pressure of the Wimbledon tournament following her withdrawal due to medical issues was met with widespread criticism. Not only was he slammed by Raducanu’s opponent, Ajla Tomljanovic, but he was also criticized by medical professionals and the general public on social media. Despite the backlash, McEnroe stood by his comments, further fueling the disapproval towards him. His attempt to relate Raducanu’s situation to his own experiences in high-level competitions did little to quell the controversy.
Furthermore, McEnroe’s audacity to fight with chair umpires and referees was seen as a blatant disregard for the rules and regulations of the sport. His heart-on-his-sleeve attitude, while making him a unique player, also contributed to his negative image.
There’s no denying that John McEnroe is an incredibly skilled tennis player with impressive achievements. However, his repeated disrespectful behavior, lack of sportsmanship, and constant courting of controversy have made him one of the most hated tennis players ever. Despite his talents, his legacy is marred by his notorious temperament and behavior on the court.
4. Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star, is undoubtedly one of the world’s leading tennis players, with an impressive number of Grand Slam titles to his name. However, he has faced criticism and has been at the receiving end of disapproval from some tennis fans for various reasons.
One reason for the criticism is his decision to leave the ATP Player Council in 2020 and form the Professional Tennis Players Association. Some saw this move as creating unnecessary division within the tennis community, which did not sit well with certain individuals.
Some people have had issues with Djokovic’s intense Serbian nationalism. Given the complex history and ethnic tensions in the Balkans area, his strong nationalist views, including his stance that Kosovo should be part of Serbia, have not been well-received by all.
Djokovic’s on-court antics have also drawn criticism. Some perceive his celebrations during and after matches as excessive or unsportsmanlike. Examples include his “shirt-ripping” celebration and his constant need to incite the crowd after great shots. Additionally, some have accused him of play-acting or exaggerating the severity of his injuries during matches, which has further fueled the dislike.
One of the most severe criticisms Djokovic faced came in 2020 when he organized the Adria Tour during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event did not strictly adhere to social distancing guidelines, and several participants, including Djokovic and his wife, tested positive for the virus. This incident painted Djokovic as reckless and irresponsible in the public eye, significantly damaging his reputation.
While Novak Djokovic is an incredibly talented tennis player and has a substantial fan base, his actions off the court and his on-court behavior have led to criticism and disapproval from some quarters. However, it’s important to note that these views are not universally held, and many people continue to admire Djokovic for his skills and achievements in the sport.
3. Bernard Tomic
Many tennis fans and players have expressed dislike and criticism towards Bernard Tomic. Despite possessing the talent and skills to make it big in the tennis world, Tomic has become notorious for all the wrong reasons, which has contributed to his negative reputation.
One of the primary reasons for the dislike towards Tomic is his apparent lack of fighting spirit or desire. Despite his obvious talent, Tomic is often perceived as having a “couldn’t care less” attitude during matches. This lack of passion and drive irks fans who expect professional athletes to give their all in every match they play. His nonchalant attitude is particularly noticeable when things are not going his way in a match. Instead of fighting back, Tomic is known to “tank” – deliberately not playing up to his full potential – which further fuels the fire of dislike among tennis fans. He has consistently boasted about his wealth and his ability to maintain his lifestyle without needing to succeed in tennis, which has further irritated fans and critics.
Off the tennis court, Tomic’s interactions with the media have been far from endearing. His brash comments, often seen as disrespectful or dismissive, have resulted in further alienation from the tennis fans and the sporting community in general. Tomic’s unapologetic personality and his disregard for public opinion have made it challenging for fans to relate to him, perhaps contributing to their dislike.
During the 2017 Wimbledon Championships, Tomic revealed in a post-match press conference that he was ‘bored’ during his first-round loss and had faked an injury. The comments received widespread backlash, with many condemning his lack of professionalism. Tomic was subsequently fined $15,000 by the International Tennis Federation for his comments.
Lastly, his difficult relationship with Tennis Australia has also been a significant contributor to his scorned reputation. He has publicly feuded with them, tagging them as being corrupt and unfairly treating him. This alleged lack of gratitude and respect for the organization that supported him in his formative years certainly did no favors to his public image.
2. Alexander Zverev
Alexander Zverev has garnered both admiration and criticism throughout his career. While some fans appreciate his skills on the court, others express dislike or even hatred towards him.
One of the main incidents that led to a significant amount of negative sentiment towards Zverev was his public feud over money with a former agent, which was eventually settled out of court. This incident not only cast a shadow over Zverev’s professional image but also highlighted a potential lack of professionalism and maturity on his part.
Moreover, Zverev was also dogged by allegations of domestic abuse by a former girlfriend for about two years. This serious accusation prompted an investigation by the ATP. Such allegations, regardless of the eventual outcome of the investigation, can significantly tarnish a person’s reputation and lead to a great deal of public dislike.
Adding fuel to the fire, Zverev demonstrated unsportsmanlike conduct during a match by throwing an on-court tantrum following a doubles loss. This behavior resulted in a hefty fine of $40,000 and a 12-month probation period for unsportsmanlike conduct. This incident not only showed a lack of sportsmanship but also a lack of respect for the sport and his opponents, further damaging his image in the public eye.
Another reason for the dislike towards Zverev stems from his interactions with fellow players, particularly his comments and behavior towards Daniil Medvedev. After an incident-packed match, Zverev publicly criticized Medvedev, calling him the ‘most unfair player in the world’ and accusing him of lacking good sportsmanship. Such public accusations are bound to create friction and tension, not just between the two players involved but also within the wider tennis community. Medvedev’s response, suggesting that Zverev should ‘look at himself in the mirror,’ indicates that the Germans’ comments were not well-received.
1. Nick Kyrgios
Nick Kyrgios, a prominent figure in the world of tennis, is a player who elicits strong reactions from fans and critics alike. His talent and skills on the court are undeniable, but it’s his off-court antics and attitude that have made him a divisive figure. There are several reasons why a significant portion of tennis fans have developed a dislike for Kyrgios.
One of the primary reasons for this is his perceived lack of respect for the game. Kyrgios is known for his rebellious nature and his tendency to break rules, often without showing any remorse or concern for the consequences. This behavior has earned him a reputation as a ‘bad boy’ of tennis, a label that he seems to embrace rather than shun. His frequent rule-breaking, coupled with his nonchalant attitude towards it, has irked many fans who feel that such behavior is disrespectful to the sport.
Another reason for the dislike towards Kyrgios is his tendency to give up easily during matches. Many fans have observed that he does not always give his best effort, especially when things are not going his way. This has led to criticism that he does not take the game seriously enough and does not show the level of commitment expected of a professional athlete.
Kyrgios’s interactions with others on the court also contribute to the negative sentiment towards him. He is known for voicing his strong opinions openly, whether it’s with the crowd, his opponent, or, most notably, with the umpires. While some appreciate his forthrightness, others view it as rude and unsportsmanlike. His confrontations with umpires, in particular, have been a source of controversy, further alienating him from many fans.
In addition, his on-court antics, such as smashing rackets, have also been a point of contention. While some fans see this as a display of passion and intensity, others view it as unnecessary and disrespectful. These behaviors, coupled with his often defiant attitude, have led many to question his professionalism and sportsmanship.
