Nick Kyrgios complains of marijuana smell during US Open second round win over Nishikori
The tennis star has accused the media and himself of creating a ‘fairy tale’ by claiming he smelled ‘garden fresh’ on the court.
Kyrgios scored a 6-4 6-4 7-6 (6) win over Nishikori on Thursday.
The 23-year-old told reporters: “When I woke up this morning I had that [marijuana] smell in the room.
“It was crazy because people have been making up stories about me the last couple of days.
“The story was that I smelt like weed. I didn’t smell it, it was just how I woke up in the morning and the [marijuana] smell that’s been in the air for days.
Marijuana flowers were found on his locker by the Open Police in the build-up to his match with Nishikori
“To be honest, I didn’t know what smelled like weed until after the match. I don’t think I smell like weed anymore. But my whole body was smoking.
“I’m not worried about anything. I’m just happy about getting through tonight and getting through life.”
Kyrgios (right) has won 17 Grand Slam singles titles to date
The American, who moved up to the top flight of tennis less than a year ago, beat Nishikori in the first round of the French Open last month.
Kyrgios said he was expecting a tougher battle against the Japanese star, but he believes his game will be effective against the world number one.
“I expect it to be a tough match now that we’re on to the court together,” he added.
“I’m going to hit it hard out there and play aggressive but also play within my strengths and build on that.
“I wouldn’t be