“Bully and nothing else”: Tennis player Nick Kyrgios blasted for bold fat-shaming jab at Ben Rothenberg in viral X post

Tennis fans were stunned after Nick Kyrgios managed to trend after a post on July 6, 2025.The Australian tennis player, infamous for being loud and outspoken, had a response to a less-than-flattering post by sports writer Ben Rothenberg on social media.

Usually when Nick Kyrgios uses social media, he is posting memes or other light-hearted posts, but this time Nick Kyrgios hit a sore point. What did he say and why is there so much anger? The situation quickly turned into a heated debate on X.

What Nick Kyrgios said about Ben Rothenberg sparks backlash

On Sunday evening, July 6, 2025, Nick Kyrgios, 30, responded to a post made by the account @TennisCentel on X. The post featured a photo of tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg and compared him to a groundhog.

Nick Kyrgios replied with just two words: “tennis central.” Many people felt that Nick Kyrgios was agreeing with the joke and making fun of Ben Rothenberg’s body.The comment did not go unnoticed. Fans quickly jumped into the replies, calling the post offensive and unnecessary. One fan wrote, “Bully and nothing else. Just sad. Used to support you.” Another said, “[Ben Rothenberg is] still more relevant in tennis than you.”

Several users told Nick Kyrgios to “grow up” and said the comment felt like bullying.

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Ben Rothenberg responds to Nick Kyrgios as feud continues online

Ben Rothenberg, 41, replied directly to Nick Kyrgios on X. “Bro you have tweeted about me four times already this month and it’s only July 6th. Let’s work on getting you a job again,” he wrote. Nick Kyrgios answered back with, “Awwww Benny I’m doing just fine. Someone’s feelings are hurting… not so fun anymore is it?”The argument is just the latest in their ongoing public clash. Ben Rothenberg and Nick Kyrgios have had issues for nearly five years. Last year, Ben Rothenberg questioned why ESPN kept Nick Kyrgios on-air after he made rude comments about a WTA player. Also, Nick Kyrgios dropped out of BBC's Wimbledon 2025 broadcast after a blowback. Fans are now discussing whether Nick Kyrgios has crossed the line, again, considering his previous mental health and behavioral struggles.