Nick Kyrgios says he has "a lot of work to do" following a Miami Open semi-final defeat to Roger Federer and believes only success will enable him to become more popular after he was booed by the Florida crowd.

Kyrgios has developed a bad-boy reputation as a result of a host of misdemeanours since emerging on the circuit.

The 21-year-old was booed throughout as Federer won their last-four thriller 7-6 (11-9) 6-7 (9-11) 7-6 (7-5) on Friday.

Kyrgios let his feelings be known by swearing at the crowd after a spectator called 'out' during a point which he lost in the final-set tie-break.

The Australian feels he can only expect more support by realising his undoubted potential and starting to win titles on a regular basis.

"The crowd was obviously on his [Federer's] side and I have to win a little bit more to start getting them on my side," said Kyrgios. "I have got a lot of work to do. I am 16 in the world. There are 15 players better than me.

"Ultimately I think I put in a good performance. I thought the crowd would have enjoyed watching it and people at home would have enjoyed watching it."

Kyrgios also took to social media to remind the supporters in Miami of his talent, posting a clip of a magnificent winner against the Swiss great and writing: "When it seems like everyone out there is cheering for your defeat, you gotta remind them that you earned your place. #fight #standtall #courage."