Becker questions Kyrgios over Open injury

The six-time major winner, who was released on December 15 after serving an eight-month sentence for hiding assets and loans to avoid paying debts, questioned whether Kyrgios was telling the truth about the injury that ruled the 27-year-old out of the Australian Open.

The outspoken duo have a history of trading verbal barbs through traditional and social media.

Kyrgios on Monday pulled out of the first grand slam of 2023, explaining he had a cyst growing on his left meniscus and needed arthroscopic knee surgery.

But Becker pointed to Kyrgios' appearance in a charity exhibition match against Novak Djokovic last Friday night as evidence last year's Wimbledon runner-up was exaggerating his injury issues.

"It didn't look that way on Friday night when he (Kyrgios) played two sets against Djokovic," Becker told Eurosport.

"He talked about injuries beforehand, but to the ankle and not to the knee.

"But what Kyrgios says and what he does are often two different things.

"Nevertheless, it is of course very bitter to have to pull out of your home grand slam before the first round due to an injury. It's a pity for all of us."

Aware of the scepticism around his withdrawal, Kyrgios on Monday posted a graphic photo to social media showing fluid that had been drained out his knee.

"I'm devastated obviously," Kyrgios told reporters.

"It's like my home tournament. I've had some great memories here. Obviously last year winning the title in doubles and playing the best tennis of my life."

Kyrgios's scratching was another hammer blow for Open organisers after the draw had already been ravaged by superstar withdrawals and retirements.

Women's titleholder Ash Barty, seven-times champion Serena Williams, her sister Venus, dual winner Naomi Osaka, world No.1 Carlos Alcaraz and the legendary Roger Federer are all missing.

Australian Associated Press