Nick Kyrgios’ lawyers are hoping to have an assault charge dismissed on mental health grounds.
Kyrgios, this year’s Wimbledon runner-up, is facing a charge related to an incident involving his ex-girlfriend, Chiara Passari.
On Tuesday, Kyrgios’ case was heard at the Australian Capital Territory magistrates court.
Kyrgios, who is competing at this week’s ATP 500 event in Japan, had his lawyers appear on his behalf in court.
Michael Kukulies-Smith, the lawyer representing Kyrgios, asked the court for an adjournment so forensic mental health reports could be prepared.
After Kukulies-Smith reviewed Kyrgios’ medical records since 2015, he felt it was appropriate to make such an application.
A hearing for the application is scheduled for February 3.
If convicted of assault, Kyrgios could face a maximum two-year prison sentence.
Kyrgios will appear in court during the next hearing
“My client’s preference is to attend in person,” Kukulies-Smith said.
Earlier this year, Kyrgios opened up about his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts.
A few years ago, Kyrgios found himself in a dark spot and he completely lost trust in people, even in his friends and family.
“This was me 3 years ago at the Australian Open,” Kyrgios wrote in an Instagram post. “Most would assume I was doing ok mentally or enjoying my life, it was one of my darkest periods. If you look closely, on my right arm you can see my self harm. I was having suicidal thoughts and was literally struggling to get out of bed, let alone play in front of millions. I was lonely, depressed, negative, abusing alcohol, drugs, pushed away family & friends. I felt as if I couldnāt talk or trust anyone. This was a result of not opening up and refusing to lean on my loved ones and simply just push myself little by little to be positive. I know that day to day life can seem extremely exhausting, impossible at times.”