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Tennis bad boy Nick Kyrgios warms up for Wimbledon with trip to pub

He was ‘laughing with friends, chatting with girls and drinking’.

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Wimbledon 2019 – Day Two – The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club

Controversial Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios had an “unorthodox” preparation for his match against Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon – a trip to the pub.

The 24-year-old was spotted at the Dog and Fox pub on Wimbledon High Street on Wednesday night

Sports journalist Miguel Seabra tweeted that he had shared “a toast” with Kyrgios and his friends during the evening.

He wrote on Twitter: “I just had a toast with Nick Kyrgios at the Dog & Fox.

“He is completely relaxed, laughing with friends, chatting with girls, drinking.”

Mr Seabra added: “Quite an unorthodox preparation for tomorrow’s blockbuster, uh? I like it.”

The Australian’s second round clash with the multiple grand slam champion Nadal is the third match scheduled on Centre Court on Thursday.

Mr Seabra said Kyrgios had left the pub two hours before his own departure.

He added: “Which means he didn’t stay until late at all. I reckon he’ll be ready for tomorrow’s blockbuster, just like Rafa will. Each in their own way. Can’t wait to see that match.”

Kyrgios is known for his occasional volatile behaviour while playing on court.

During his five-setter victory against fellow Australian Jordan Thompson in the first round he earned a code violation for whacking a ball out of court.

He exchanged jokes with the crowd, practised cricket and dived extravagantly while chasing a shot.

The Australian was fined more than £13,000 for his behaviour at Queen’s Club last month.

After his first round match Kyrgios was asked whether he had a good relationship with Spain’s Nadal.

“Not sure that me and Rafa could go down to the Dog & Fox and have a beer together,” he admitted.

After news of the pub visit broke, Mr Seabra rose to his defence on Twitter.

He wrote: “Did what many used to do in the past & some still do.

“Especially Aussies, who went for a drink before facing each other the next day!”

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