Nick Kyrgios: “I Need a Miracle” for Australian Open

Nick Kyrgios faces uncertainty about his fitness for the Australian Open after experiencing “throbbing” wrist pain in his first singles match in 18 months. The 29-year-old Australian, recovering from wrist surgery in September 2023, narrowly lost to France’s Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, 7-6 (7-2) 6-7 (4-7) 7-6 (7-3), in Brisbane. Despite showing glimpses of his skill including a flawless service game, Kyrgios expressed doubts about his readiness for the physically demanding Grand Slam which begins on 12 January.

Kyrgios, who ruptured his scapholunate ligament and required reconstructive surgery, admitted he would need “a miracle” for his wrist to hold up in Melbourne. “That was a best-of-three match with my wrist. A Grand Slam is mentally draining and physically a grind,” he said. The former Wimbledon finalist remains hopeful but realistic about his chances. In Brisbane, Kyrgios showcased the talent that brought him to the Wimbledon final in 2022.

Backed by a supportive home crowd, his powerful serve remained a key weapon as he saved two break points and didn’t drop serve. However, his opponent, 6ft 8in Mpetshi Perricard, overpowered him with 36 aces and an 89% first-serve win rate. Despite the loss, Nick Kyrgios found positives in his performance, noting, “It was great to be back and play at a level against someone like that who’s had a fantastic year.”

Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic eased into the second round with a 6-3 6-3 win over Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata. The 24-time major champion, now coached by Andy Murray, looked sharp in his first singles match since October. Djokovic, targeting his 100th career title, said starting the season with a win was crucial. “Rinky made me work hard for the win,” he remarked.