Kyrgios returns amid injury concerns.©(@FS_Tennis1 )
Nick Kyrgios has expressed uncertainty over his fitness for the upcoming Australian Open following his return to singles action after an 18-month hiatus. The Australian tennis star, who underwent reconstructive wrist surgery in September 2023, announced that his competitive comeback left him in “throbbing” pain, raising questions about his readiness for the Grand Slam in January.
Dramatic Return to Singles Play
In Brisbane, Kyrgios took to the singles court for the first time since his wrist surgery, battling Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a grueling three-set match. Despite flashes of brilliance, Kyrgios narrowly lost 7-6 (7-2), 6-7 (4-7), 7-6 (7-3) to the 21-year-old rising star, whose towering 6ft 8in frame and powerful serve have made him one of the ATP’s most promising talents.
Kyrgios, once ranked 13th in the world, demonstrated his trademark tenacity and skill, refusing to drop a service game throughout the match. However, the Australian struggled to counter Mpetshi Perricard’s remarkable serving prowess, which included 36 aces and an 89% success rate on first-serve points.
“Honestly, it was a great match, considering I hadn’t played in 18 months,” said Kyrgios. “To put myself in a winning position was exciting. It was just good to be back out there and to prove I can still compete at a high level.”
Injury Concerns Cast Shadow Over Future
While Kyrgios showed positive signs on the court, the match also underscored lingering concerns about his physical condition. The 29-year-old sought medical treatment on his right wrist during the encounter, the same wrist that required surgery to repair a ruptured scapholunate ligament.
Reflecting on his condition, Kyrgios admitted that his Grand Slam ambitions might be in jeopardy. “After today, I’m super excited for the Australian Open. If I’m able to play, I’m able to play. But the reality set in for me,” Kyrgios explained. “A best-of-three match is one thing, but a Grand Slam is physically and mentally draining. I almost need a miracle for my wrist to hold up.”
The Australian Open, designed to start on January 12 in Melbourne, is fast approaching. Kyrgios’s participation remains uncertain as he navigates the challenges of recovery and competition at the highest level.
Also Read: Djokovic and Kyrgios Stun Fans in Doubles Debut at Brisbane
Doubles Success with Djokovic Offers Glimmer of Hope
Earlier in the week, Kyrgios marked his competitive return in doubles alongside Novak Djokovic. Once considered rivals, the duo showcased strong chemistry to secure a victory in Brisbane. Kyrgios’s powerful serve, a hallmark of his game, remained intact, offering hope that his injury has not diminished one of his greatest assets.
Backed by an enthusiastic home crowd, Kyrgios’s doubles success highlighted his ability to perform under pressure. However, the transition from doubles to singles remains a significant hurdle as Kyrgios evaluates his readiness for the demands of a Grand Slam tournament.
Mpetshi Perricard’s Meteoric Rise
With his victory, opponent Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard continued to make waves on the ATP Tour. Ranked outside the top 200 just a year ago, the 21-year-old Frenchman has made a remarkable climb, breaking into the top 50 and earning a reputation as a formidable server. His performance against Kyrgios showcased his potential as a future star in men’s tennis.
“I have to give credit to my opponent. He’s coming off the best year of his career and is only getting better,” Kyrgios said. “To play at that level against him was exciting, even though the result didn’t go my way.”
Djokovic Kicks Off New Season with Victory
In another highlight from Tuesday, Novak Djokovic cruised into the second round of singles competition in Brisbane. The 37-year-old Serb, now coached by retired tennis legend Andy Murray, delivered a commanding 6-3, 6-3 win over Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, is targeting his 100th career singles title as he prepares for the Australian Open.
“To start the season with a win is very important,” Djokovic said. “Rinky made me work hard for the victory, and I’m pleased with how sharp I felt on the court.”
Outlook for Kyrgios
As the Australian Open looms, Kyrgios faces an uphill battle to regain full fitness. The Brisbane singles match offered promise and caution, with the Australian star showing glimpses of his potential while acknowledging the physical toll of his recovery.
For now, Kyrgios remains hopeful yet realistic about his prospects. “I’ll keep pushing, and we’ll see what happens,” he said. Tennis fans worldwide will be watching closely to see if Kyrgios can defy the odds and make a triumphant return to the Grand Slam stage in Melbourne.
