5. Nick Kyrgios' 2019 meltdown at the Cincinnati Open
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The estimated total fine amount for 2019 is $113,000.
Over the years, Nick Kyrgios has received fines for a number of offences. You name it—ball abuse, profanity, racket smashing, furniture hurling from the court, taunting spectators, spitting—and he's definitely been penalised for it. Few losses, in terms of money and matches, have likely hurt the hot-headed Australian more than his Cincinnati Open second-round departure against Karen Khachanov.
The 2019 Cincinnati Open meltdown of Nick Kyrgios ©Wikimedia Commons/si.robi
After winning the opening set in a tiebreak, the Australian player appeared to crumble. Along with his bad play, Kyrgios also broke two of his own rackets after losing the match and yelled profanities and insults at the chair umpire during the next two sets. A loss that was bound to cost Nick $113,000.
6. Marcus Lacks "Smartness" Using His Words
On January 5, 2023, Marcus Smart, a guard for the Boston Celtics, found himself at the center of controversy following an incident during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Known for his fiery temperament and passionate play, Smart's emotions got the better of him, resulting in a significant penalty from the NBA. During the game, Smart was involved in an altercation that led to his ejection after receiving his second technical foul. The incident didn't end there, as Smart made some heated remarks directed at the game officials, expressing his dissatisfaction with their decisions.
The NBA, which has strict rules regarding player conduct and respect towards officials, responded swiftly and decisively. Smart was handed a $35,000 fine, a substantial amount that reflected the severity of his actions and words. The league's decision to impose such a heavy fine underscored its commitment to maintaining decorum and respect on the court, regardless of a player's status or emotions.
Smart's actions and the subsequent fine sparked discussions among fans, analysts, and fellow players. Some argued that his passion and intensity are part of what makes him a valuable player, while others felt that his behavior crossed the line and warranted the punishment. The incident served as a reminder to all players about the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect, even in the heat of the moment.
While Smart's outburst and the resulting fine may have been a lapse in judgment, it also highlighted the pressures and emotions that come with professional sports. For Marcus Smart, the $35,000 penalty was a costly lesson in the importance of keeping one's composure and choosing words wisely, especially when dealing with game officials.
