Kyrgios was riled once again when Becker mocked one of his Instagram posts, in which the Australian provocateur referred to himself with typical bravado as "different breed", in the latest episode of a row that shows no signs of abating.

Six-time Grand Slam winner Becker, who drew a string of angry reactions from Kyrgios when he accused him of acting unethically by questioning other players over their conduct earlier in the pandemic, told him: "In your dreams."

Rarely noted for his restraint, Kyrgios volleyed back: "Hating like a little groupie. Lingering around like a bad smell, maybe hoping to get more likes and follows. Unfortunately [he'll] never be as influential [as me]."