Nick Kyrgios was left fuming after he received a point penalty during his China Open final defeat to Rafael Nadal on Sunday.

The 22-year-old Australian was on the wrong end of a dubious line decision during the first game of the contest.

This caused a furious debate on court at the changeover between Kyrgios and match umpire Mohamed Lehyani.

Nadal went onto claim the title with a 6-2, 6-1 win in straight sets, as he claimed his sixth title of the 2017 season, which has included two Grand Slams, the French Open and the US Open. 

But, according to Sky Sports commentator Mark Petchey, Lehyani may have been forced into his action by Nadal.

Petchey said: "Rafael Nadal, to be fair, has handled what's going on pretty well but there was a strong look up to Mohamed Lehyani at the end of the last game.

"He was saying 'you need to take control of this situation, it's a little out of control - and enough'.

"I think, to be fair to the umpire, he's trying to do that as well.

"He's walking a very fine line here, Kyrgios."

Despite his frustration following the defeat in Beijing, and the decision that caused his rant, Kyrgios was full of praise for the 31-year-old Spaniard Nadal.

Kyrgios said: “Firstly I want to congratulate Rafa. He’s had an extraordinary couple of months, with the US Open was unbelievable. I enjoyed watching every moment. It’s great to see him back in top form and World No 1 is a great credit to his team as well.

Watch the fiasco in the video below.

“It’s been an amazing week for me. My first time in Beijing and to make the final is pretty good. I’ve played some great tennis but it wasn’t to be today. Rafa played unbelievably. He’s one of the greatest of all time.

“A great week. I’m enjoying it. I’ll be back.”