Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from the Australian Open due to a knee injury, a disappointing turn for the home crowd as the tournament gets underway in Melbourne.
Expressing his deep disappointment, the 27-year-old told reporters in a press conference, “I’m devastated, obviously, it’s my home tournament. I’ve had some great memories.”
Kyrgios, who was considered a favorite going into the event, acknowledged the brutal nature of the decision but remained optimistic about his return, saying, “All I can do now is just look forward, do what I need to do, and come back.”
Kyrgios was set to play against Roman Safiullin in the first round, but American Denis Kudla will now replace him in the draw. Addressing the injury, Kyrgios’ physiotherapist Will Maher assured that while the setback is disappointing for the Australian star, it is not career-threatening.
“It won’t interrupt his year tremendously,” Maher explained, adding, “The prognosis is good and he’ll be fine.” Maher expressed confidence that Kyrgios should be ready to compete at the Indian Wells tournament in March.
Ranked 21st in the world, Kyrgios had a unique performance last year, finishing as the runner-up in Wimbledon men’s singles and clinching the men’s doubles title at the 2022 Australian Open alongside partner Thanasi Kokkinakis. This recent injury follows a similar setback that led to his withdrawal from the inaugural United Cup in December.