Kyrgios confirms relationship with Tomljanovic, avoids fine for using phone in warm-up

Nick Kyrgios and Alja Tomljanovic have publicly confirmed they are in a relationship, according to Australian media.

The two played mixed doubles at the Australian Open. After falling to the top-seeded team of Sania Mirza and Ivan Dodig, they acknowledged in their press conference that they were dating.

Kyrgios, asked about playing with his girlfriend as opposed to another doubles partner, said, "It was a little bit tougher at times. "It was good though. We practice a lot together. To be honest it was easy. I know what her tendencies are on court, I know what her strengths are so I know what she likes to do out there. It was easy."

"It was definitely a first," said Tomljanovic. "We practiced a lot in the off-season and we know each other pretty well."

The two were photographed practicing together on the front page of a local newspaper during the first week of the season.

The mixed doubles match also received attention because Kyrgios talked on his phone during the warm-up, which is not allowed. Players are not allowed to access electronic devices during play. Kyrgios said friends had called him and, asked if it was important, said, "Kind of—not really."

Kyrgios will not be fined, however, as it was determined to have been within the rules. A statement from the referee's office said, "As Nick walked on to the court before his match he answered a phone call then hung up. This happened prior to the pre-match meeting and no further action will be taken."

The 20-year-old has received fines for unsportsmanlike conduct during the tournament.