Tennis News Today: Nick Kyrgios claps back at Nicolas Mahut after Jannik Sinner criticism; Coco Gauff's ex-coach honors MLB legend after his death & more

Nick Kyrgios hit back at Nicolas Mahut after facing criticism over his remarks about wanting to play Jannik Sinner at the 2025 Australian Open. Coco Gauff and Andre Agassi's ex-coach, Brad Gilbert, paid a heartfelt tribute to MLB legend Rickey Henderson following his death.

Chris Evert expressed her gratitude and love to her former rivals Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, and Tracy Austin after they sent her heartfelt wishes on her 70th birthday. Meanwhile, Casper Ruud's fiance, Maria Galligani, shared a touching birthday message for the Norwegian tennis star.

On that note, let's take a look at the day's biggest headlines:

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Nick Kyrgios reacts to Nicolas Mahut criticizing him after Jannik Sinner comments

Nick Kyrgios pictured at Wimbledon 2023 | Image Source: Getty

Nick Kyrgios faced backlash from Nicolas Mahut after expressing his desire to play Jannik Sinner at the 2025 Australian Open, intending to rile up the crowd and "start a riot" following his criticism of the Italian over his doping controversy.

Speaking to Eurosport, Mahut dismissed the Australian's comments, saying that no matter what the Australian does, he will not stand a chance against Sinner.

Kyrgios hit back at Mahut's comments during an interview with Telecom Asia, dismissing the Frenchman's opinion as irrelevant. He also mentioned the likes of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer, adding:

"He was an amazing doubles player, a Grand Slam champion, no doubt, but he didn't have the singles career I've had. That's probably why he has his opinion. But on the singles court, he never had the belief I have, so that opinion means nothing to me," he said.

"That belief is what separates players. Federer, Nadal, Djokovic - they were the greatest because people were defeated before they even stepped on the court with them. I don't want to be that player. I'll always back my ability and my belief," he added.

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Coco Gauff's ex-coach Brad Gilbert mourns the death of Rickey Henderson

Coco Gauff and Brad Gilbert pictured at the 2024 French Open | Image Source: Getty

Brad Gilbert, the renowned coach who has worked with stars like Andre Agassi and Coco Gauff, shared his condolences following the death of MLB legend Rickey Henderson. The 65-year-old baseball icon passed away in the Oakland, California area after battling pneumonia.

Gilbert wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

"RIP Rickey Henderson beloved Oaktown native gone way too soon, absolutely 💯 legendary player that was must see tv 📺 🙏 ⚾️."

Henderson amassed an incredible 1,406 stolen bases and 2,295 runs during his illustrious career. His achievements included World Series victories with the Oakland Athletics in 1989 and the Toronto Blue Jays in 1993, among others.

The 10-time All-Star was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009, honoring his remarkable career and lasting impact on the sport.

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Chris Evert reacts to Martina Navratilova, Billie Jean King & Tracy Austin wishing her on 70th birthday

Chris Evert pictured at the 2024 French Open | Image Source: Getty

Chris Evert celebrated her 70th birthday on December 21, receiving wishes from people worldwide, including her former rivals Billie Jean King, Tracy Austin, and Martina Navratilova, making her special day even more memorable.

Evert took time out to reply to everyone on X. She responded to Navratilova's message, writing:

"Luv ya back @Martina."

She replied to King:

"Thank you Billie and Ilana!"

The 18-time Grand Slam champion said the following to Austin:

"Thank you, Tracy!"

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Casper Ruud's fiance Maria Galligani shares heartwarming message on Norwegian's 26th birthday

Casper Ruud and Maria Galligani pictured at Vogue World | Image Source: Getty

Casper Ruud and his girlfriend-turned-fiance Maria Galligani have been together for more than six years. Their relationship reached a new milestone when they announced their engagement on November 26, 2024.

Galligani has been a constant source of support for Ruud, frequently attending his matches to cheer him on from the sidelines. On December 22, 2024, she made his 26th birthday even more special by posting a heartwarming message on Instagram Stories.

She called him the "kindest, strongest, and most amazing human" she knows. Her post featured pictures of the couple at the beach, including one from the day they got engaged.

"Happy birthday to the kindest, strongest and most amazing human I know. 🤍 🎂 @casperruud. Love you," she wrote.