Nick Kyrgios blames stomach bug for early retirement in first round of Shanghai Masters

The 22-year-old, who lost the China Open final to Rafael Nadal two days ago following a run of fine form, cut a frustrated and disinterested figure at the competition for the second year running

The Australian has a track record for histrionics (Getty)

Nick Kyrgios has blamed a stomach bug on his mid-match retirement against Steve Johnson in the first round of the Shanghai Masters.

The 22-year-old controversially walked off court after losing the first set in his clash with the American.

It was 12 months ago that Kyrgios was handed a ban for showing a lack of effort against Mischa Zverev and arguing with the umpire and fans in Shanghai.

But the Australian, who lost the China Open final to Rafael Nadal two days ago following a run of fine form, once again cut a frustrated and disinterested figure at the competition.

He was seen complaining about the match officials' decision-making and was handed a point penalty for an obscenity early on in the clash.

After Johnson served an ace to win the breaker 7-5, Kyrgios walked over to shake hands with his opponent and umpire Fergus Murphy.

When asked if he required medical assistance, the 13th seed collected his bags and headed straight for the changing rooms amid a chorus of boos.

Taking to Twitter after the match, Kyrgios blamed illness for his sudden departure: "Guys I want to apologise to the fans in Shanghai and those that watched around the world on TV today.

"I've been battling a stomach bug for the last 24 hours and I tried to be ready but I was really struggling on the court today, which I think was pretty evident from the first point.

"My shoulder started to hurt in the practice today, which didn't help either, and once I lost the first set I was just not strong enough to continue because I've not eaten much for the past 24 hours.

"I'm hoping to be okay for the doubles and will make a decision tomorrow morning, hopefully off of a good night's sleep, which I didn't get last night!

"I'm gutted to be honest as I was keen to keep the good momentum that I built in Beijing going and finish the year strong. I'll do what I can to make sure I do."

Depending on the course of action taken by the ATP, Kyrgios could now face disciplinary measures for his latest antics.

He was handed an eight-week ban and fined $25,000 for his behaviour at Shanghai last year which brought his season to a premature end.