SYDNEY • Troubled Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has indicated he will play fewer tournaments next year after his meltdown at the Shanghai Masters saw him slapped with an eight-week ban.

The world No. 14, who gave away points and swore and argued with fans before being booed off court after his second-round defeat in China last week, blamed a physical and mental toll.

It led to the Association of Tennis Professionals ordering a US$25,000 (S$34,660) fine and the ban, which can be reduced to three weeks if the 21-year-old sees a psychologist.

In a question-and-answer session on Twitter yesterday, Kyrgios was asked what his goals were for next year.

"More time off," he replied.

He was also questioned on whether he enjoyed playing tennis, to which he answered: "lol".

If he does seek help for his temper, he could return to the Tour on Nov 7, after the three-week ban.

However, in the same Twitter session, the Australian appeared to be at odds with Tennis Australia's claim that he had agreed to seek professional help.

When asked if he intended to meet with a psychologist, he replied: "Probs not."

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE