Nick Kyrios pleads guilty to assaulting ex-girlfriend but charges dropped on basis of his mental health

2022 Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios pleaded guilty to pushing a former girlfriend to the ground two years ago, with a psychologist attesting to his history of severe depression, suicidal ideation and insomnia.

He was charged with assaulting his ex-girlfriend Chiara Passari during an argument in his hometown of Canberra in January 2021. Kyrgios admitted to the charges in the Australian Capital Territory Magistrates Court to the charge but magistrate Jane Campbell did not record a conviction because the offence was at the low end of seriousness for a common assault, and was not premeditated.

Campbell described it as an act of 'stupidity' and 'frustration'.

Kyrgios, who was using crutches following recent surgery on his left knee, didn't speak to reporters as he left the court but issued a statement through a management company.

"I respect today's ruling and am grateful to the court for dismissing the charges without conviction," Kyrgios said.

"I was not in a good place when this took place and I reacted to a difficult situation in a way I deeply regret. I know it wasn't OK and I'm sincerely sorry for the hurt I caused.

Mental health is tough. Life can seem overwhelming. But I've found that getting help and working on myself has helped me to feel better and to be better."

Kyrgios' psychologist, Sam Borenstein, said in a written report and testimony by phone that Kyrgios had suffered major depressive episodes in the past and had used alcohol and drugs to cope. Kyrgios' mental health led to impulsive and reckless behaviour. His recent knee injury had resulted in mild to moderate symptoms of depression, but his mental health was improving, Borenstein said.

Kyrgios shoved Passari in January 2021 and injured her shoulders and knees. She signed a police statement alleging the assault 11 months later after her relationship with Kyrgios had ended.

His current partner, Costeen Hatzi, wrote in a character reference that she had no concerns about violence in her relationship. Hatzi was among Kyrgios' supporters who sat behind him in court.
(With AP Inputs)