Nick Kyrgios is set to return to tennis and also play again with Thanasi Kokkinakis after the Australian duo confirmed their plans to compete in the Australian Open men’s doubles event.
Nearly three years ago, the home favorite duo delighted the local crowd after making it all the way at Melbourne Park and claiming the title in doubles. Following their triumph, the pair – who have known each other since childhood – revealed that they pretty much decided to sign up for the doubles event because they wanted to have some fun.
Sadly, Kyrgios injured his knee in late 2022 so they weren’t able to defend their title in 2023. This year, the 29-year-old also didn’t compete at Melbourne Park.
But after missing the last two seasons, the 2022 Wimbledon finalist is ready to play again at the start of 2025.
“Everyone loved it last time — we loved it last time. It was so much fun. It’s definitely not going to be the priority for us but we feel that we owe it to people to get back out there and have some fun,” Kokkinakis told 9News Melbourne.
Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios© YouTube screenshot
Kokkinakis warns: Kyrgios is a dangerous threat…
Although the seven-time ATP champion hasn’t played in a long time, his good friend insists that he can’t be taken for granted.
“It’s great for fans in Australia [and] fans all over the world. He’s a different cat. He obviously has a different energy about him and he’s a hell of a player,.. His body is in good nick, which I’m sure it will be [when the AO starts]. He’s always a dangerous threat,” the 28-year-old said of the returning Australian.
After winning the 2022 Australian Open doubles title, Kokkinakis and Kyrgios also won the ATP 250 tournament in Atlanta that year.
One thing is for sure, they will again draw lots of attention and the stands will be packed for their doubles matches in Melbourne.
Tennis World USA