Melbourne: Nick Kyrgios has confirmed that singles competition at the Australian Open will not be part of the 2025 schedule, despite being fit enough to return to the court after knee and wrist surgery.
Nick Kyrgios has said that the physical demands of best-of-five-set tennis remain too demanding at this stage of recovery, prompting a decision to focus on doubles.
The Australian player has explained that discussions with Tennis Australia have influenced the call, with priority placed on long-term fitness rather than a rushed singles comeback. Nick Kyrgios has stated that although match play has resumed, endurance over extended matches has not yet returned to the required level.
Nick Kyrgios made a return to singles action earlier this week at the Brisbane International, marking the first ATP Tour singles appearance in nearly ten months. That match ended in a straight-sets loss to Aleksandar Kovacevic, with the contest lasting just over an hour. During the match, visible discomfort was evident, with strapping on the wrist and support on the ankle highlighting ongoing physical management.
Attention has now shifted to doubles, where Nick Kyrgios has partnered long-time friend Thanasi Kokkinakis. The pair returned to competition but exited their opening match in a tie-break, with additional strapping seen on the elbow and knee. Despite the loss, the appearance has confirmed that participation at Melbourne Park remains possible.
Nick Kyrgios has indicated interest in appearing in exhibition and lead-up events, including the One Point Slam and the Kooyong Classic, which begins next week. These commitments have been viewed as stepping stones rather than full competitive returns, allowing controlled match exposure ahead of future seasons.
Entry into the Australian Open singles draw would have required either qualification or a wildcard from organisers. With that option declined, the singles field will feature other wildcard recipients, including Jordan Thompson, Chris O’Connell, and former champion Stan Wawrinka.
The men’s doubles competition is scheduled to begin on January 19, one day after the singles tournament gets under way. Nick Kyrgios has said that prioritising recovery now is intended to support a full competitive return in the future, with expectations set on rejoining singles action next year.
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