Nick Kyrgios experienced pain and discomfort in his surgically repaired wrist during his first match back at the Brisbane International, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming Australian Open. After undergoing wrist surgery in September 2023, the Australian opted to sit out the entire 2024 season to avoid rushing his recovery.
In his first ATP singles match in 18 months on Tuesday, the 29-year-old battled through a grueling three-set encounter lasting two and a half hours. Throughout the match, Kyrgios was seen checking and wrapping his wrist, a sight that worried his fans. Ultimately, he lost to Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard with a score of 7-6 (2), 6-7 (4), 7-6 (3).
Following the defeat, Kyrgios confirmed to reporters that he experienced significant wrist pain, describing it as “throbbing.” He acknowledged that the match served as a reality check regarding his participation in the Australian Open. “After today, I’m super excited for the Australian Open. If I’m able to play, I’m able to play. But the reality kind of set in for me,” he said.
Kyrgios noted the physical and mental challenges of competing in a Grand Slam, stating, “That’s a best-of-three match with my wrist. Not only is a Grand Slam mentally really draining, it’s physically a grind. I think I almost need a miracle, and I need, like, the stars to align for my wrist to hold up in a Grand Slam for sure.”
As he navigates his recovery, all eyes will be on Kyrgios as he and partner Novak Djokovic advance to the quarterfinals in doubles at the Brisbane International.
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