A Latin American astrophysicist has debunked Stephen Hawking's assertions about the origin of the universe.

Mexican cosmologist Leticia Corral has been recognized for her career-defining theory about how the universe came into existence. Contrary to what the world-renowned astrophysicist has been advocating over the years, Corral believes the universe is cyclical.

"Everything started from one point and that it returns to that," she told Deconstrucción via Remezcla. Corral pointed out that Hawking overlooked the concept of asymmetry when defining time.

It can be remembered that Hawking's own interpretation of cosmological facts led him to believe that the universe was the work of a singular and scientifically explainable phenomenon, not of a supreme deity.

"Before we understand science, it is natural to believe that God created the universe,'" Hawking told El Mundo, as translated by CNet. "But now science offers a more convincing explanation."

Hawking shared more details about his absolute pronouncement during a free lecture on "The Origin of the Universe" in Pasadena, California. He even mused, "What was God doing before the divine creation? Was he preparing hell for people who asked such questions?"