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Former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios says he has “gone to all lengths” to distance himself from controversial influencer Andrew Tate.
Australian Kyrgios shared a post from self-proclaimed “misogynist” Tate in February this year.
Tate and his brother Tristan face a trial in Romania after being arrested in December 2023 over allegations of rape, human trafficking and forming a criminal gang – charges they deny.
“I was not aware of the full picture when I reposted Andrew Tate,” a statement from Kyrgios to BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour read.
Kyrgios will be part of the BBC’s TV team at Wimbledon, which begins on Monday.
“Since I have learned of the full story I have deleted posts, unfollowed him and gone to all lengths to distance myself,” the statement continued.
In February 2023, Kyrgios pleaded guilty to assaulting his ex-girlfriend but avoided a criminal conviction.
The magistrate called the incident “a single act of stupidity or frustration”.
“What I did was wrong, and I think I’ve been very clear about that. I reacted to a difficult situation in a way that I deeply regret,” Kyrgios said.
“I have apologised, and I really meant when I said nothing like it will ever happen again.
“For now, I’m just so happy to be here at Wimbledon and doing my best to share some insights into the tournament for everyone watching on the BBC.”
The BBC has been criticised by some for using Kyrgios within its coverage.
Women’s Aid, the national charity that aims to end domestic violence against women and children, said it was “disappointed” by the decision.
“It’s been received quite controversially,” broadcaster Catherine Whitaker told Woman’s Hour.
“The BBC is not alone in employing him – ESPN, Tennis Channel, Channel 7 in Australia have all made the same decision and come in for some criticism.
“A lot of people, particularly here in the UK, would argue the BBC can and perhaps ought to have a higher moral bar for its pundits.”
A BBC spokesperson said: “Nick Kyrgios has spoken about this publicly and apologised.”
Kyrgios will feature on BBC TV for six days of Wimbledon, which runs until 14 July.