Nick Kyrgios and Kokkinakis Ousted in AO Doubles; Kyrgios to Reassess Schedule Post-Mixed

Nick Kyrgios has cast fresh doubt over his tennis future after a bruising and emotionally charged exit from the Australian Open men’s doubles, admitting he is “tired” and “pissed off” following another physically taxing setback at Melbourne Park.

The former Wimbledon finalist and his partner Thanasi Kokkinakis were knocked out in the first round after a late-night, three-set, all-Australian battle against Jason Kubler and Marc Polmans. The pair, popularly known as the “Special Ks”, went down 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (10/4) in front of a boisterous home crowd, with both players visibly struggling with fitness issues as the match wore on.

Kyrgios, 30, has barely featured in singles competition over the past few years due to persistent injuries and entered the tournament with limited match practice. After the defeat, he acknowledged uncertainty over what lies ahead, saying he plans to reassess his schedule once his remaining commitments at the tournament conclude.

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The outspoken Australian is slated to play mixed doubles alongside Canada’s Leylah Fernandez, provided his body recovers in time. However, he indicated that beyond that match, no clear plans are in place. Kyrgios said the intense travel, physical strain and emotional toll of returning to competition have left him questioning his next steps.

Reflecting on his recent month and a half on tour, Kyrgios said he feels he has already achieved what he set out to do, reiterating sentiments that echo his past hints about stepping away from the sport. He added that he no longer feels certain about continuing at the highest level.

Frustration boiled over during the match when two crucial decisions in the final-set super tiebreak went against him and Kokkinakis, further fuelling his visible anger. As the Australian Open continues, Kyrgios’ comments have once again placed his long-term future under scrutiny, raising questions about whether the mercurial talent is nearing the end of his professional tennis journey.

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