Nick Kyrgios’ manager, Daniel Horsfall, has defended the controversial athlete after he dropped out of the Adelaide International in the hopes of recovering from an ankle injury in time to play at the Australian Open.

It is the second competition the world No.22 has pulled out of with the tennis star’s injury was cited as the reason he withdrew from the United Cup last week, one day before he was expected to appear on the court alongside his fellow Aussie players, drawing mass criticism over whether or not the injury was real.

Speaking with The Age, Horsfall slammed critics for doubting Kyrgios, saying there’s “no doubt at all” that he’d be competing at the Australian Open as the athlete is making “good progress”.

“We are very excited and working every day to make sure we’re ready for the Australian Open,” Horsfall said.

“A lot of people were upset after he pulled out of the United Cup, but I hope they now realise the injury is genuine. I wish more people would ask questions before putting in their two cents.”

Kyrgios’ critics are vocal on social media, saying they expect to hear the tennis player use his injury as an excuse if he doesn’t perform well at the Australian Open.

Despite prominent tennis figures like Lleyton Hewitt throwing Kyrgios “under the bus” for pulling out of the United Cup at the last minute, organisers for the Adelaide Open were understanding.

“The Adelaide International can confirm that Nick Kyrgios will not compete in Week 2 of the tournament,” the tournament said in a statement.

“The event is clearly disappointed in this decision as would be the fans who support him, but injury happens and health is always the priority.

“The Adelaide International wishes Nick Kyrgios the best of luck and a quick recovery, understanding the importance of the Australian Open preparation. He is welcome back to the Adelaide International anytime.”