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Cape Town - Nick Kyrgios has defended himself on social media after two-time Grand Slam winner Pat Rafter called for him to be suspended.
Kyrgios wracked up record fines for his on-court antics in Cincinnati, which included smashing rackets and abusing umpires.
A decision is reportedly yet to be made on whether a suspension will follow, but fellow Australian Rafter has already had his say.
"I don't understand why it hasn't happened," he said during the launch of the ATP Cup in Sydney earlier this week.
"There is obviously something else going on behind the scenes. I don't know.
"On paper it looks like he should be suspended, to me. But at what stage do you say the crowd is more important? Or are you trying to uphold a certain standard or protocol for players to adhere to."
Kyrgios took to Twitter to defend his contribution that he makes to the Tour as well as questioning Rafter's patriotism.
"Everywhere I play the stadiums are sold out, and the event makes money with me around?" wrote Kyrgios.
"Not surprised Rafter has commented on this topic, guy loves hanging fellow Aussies out to dry. Enjoy staying relevant champ."
Probably because everywhere I play the stadiums are sold out, and the event makes money with me around? Not surprised rafter has commented on this topic, guy loves hanging fellow aussies out to dry. Enjoy staying relevant champ ??
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) September 17, 2019
