Nick Kyrgios insists 'dirty scum' comment was aimed at himself at Wimbledon

Australian Nick Kyrgios insists a "dirty scum" comment at Wimbledon was aimed at himself and not at the umpire.

Australian Nick Kyrgios was involved in a controversial incident at Wimbledon during his first-round victory over Argentina's Diego Schwartzman.

The 20-year-old, who shocked Rafael Nadal in the fourth round last year, cruised to a 6-0 6-2 7-6 (8-6) win in just 85 minutes to set up a second-round meeting with another Argentine - Juan Monaco.

But Kyrgios' success was marred by a heated discussion with the umpire over a line call that included the Australian shouting out "dirty scum".

World No 29 Kyrgios, who split with long-time coach Todd Larkham just before Wimbledon, was adamant he was directing the abuse at himself, but he was hardly repentant when quizzed about his outburst at the post-match press conference.

"I wasn't referring to the ref at all there. Yeah, it was towards myself. Obviously I knew you guys were going to ask me about that," he said.

"I'm not too fussed about the call to be honest, but if it was a more crucial time in the match, or deeper in the tournament, that could swing things.

"It shouldn't be something that can be taken lightly. You've got to make the right call there.

"It wouldn't bother me one bit if they fine me."

Pressed by reporters on why he would describe himself in such negative fashion, Kyrgios grew agitated, saying: "Because I can. Why are you so caught up about the question?"

Kyrgios’ moody demeanour also earned plenty of attention at the Australian Open this year, but he has no intention of toning down his antics.

"I play the sport the way I play it. I'm not going to change, you know," he said.

"I think the sport needs characters. I feel like it's good when you see someone that's raw, just plays the game the way they play it."