Kyrgios' Australian Open in doubt following abdominal strain

Nick Kyrgios, aged 29, withdrew from an exhibition match against Novak Djokovic on Wednesday, citing an abdominal strain, which raises concerns about his fitness for the Australian Open commencing this weekend.

The controversial Australian made his return to competitive tennis last week in Brisbane after an 18-month hiatus due to knee surgery and wrist reconstruction.

He was eliminated in the first round after a challenging three-set match against the emerging French player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, admitting post-match that he was experiencing pain.

Kyrgios also participated in two doubles matches alongside Djokovic and was scheduled to compete against the Serbian in a charity singles match on Thursday at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park.

The Australian Open is set to begin on Sunday.

"Regrettably, I will not be able to play against my good friend this Thursday, the 9th, as I have undergone an ultrasound on my abdomen and have been diagnosed with a grade 1 strain," he stated on Instagram.

"I will be resting and doing everything possible to ensure I am ready for the Australian Open."

The 29-year-old, who consistently attracts large crowds at the Australian Open, reached his first major singles final at Wimbledon in 2022, where he was defeated in four sets by Djokovic.

However, he has struggled to advance further in an era dominated by Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer, along with his occasionally volatile temperament.

SportsLigue