After numerous setbacks and only six matches since October 2022, Nick Kyrgios is ready for a fresh start.
The Aussie will kick off the new season in Brisbane, facing Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round.
Tennis star Nick Kyrgios has touched down in Brisbane, gearing up for his first professional match in almost a year. pic.twitter.com/hjYB4a4RV2
— 7NEWS Sydney (@7NewsSydney) January 3, 2026
For the former Wimbledon finalist, Brisbane has long held a special place in his career. Nick is working hard at the Queensland Tennis Centre, hoping for a strong start to the season and no physical issues.
After an extended break, it's less about results and more about reconnecting with the essence of the sport and the unique energy of the home crowd during the Aussie summer, the most important part of the season.
Since October 2022, Kyrgios has played six ATP matches. He underwent surgeries and started from beginning due to severe hip issues. Now, he arrives in Brisbane with a renewed perspective.
Nick Kyrgios, Brisbane 2026© Stream screenshot
Nick is not taking anything for granted after an extended period of rehabilitation, conditioning and constant load management. For him, being healthy enough to compete again carries its own significance, without thinking much about results.
The Aussie wants to enjoy the moment and give the crowd what they expect to see from him. The goal in Brisbane is to compete and put a show worthy of the occasion.
Kyrgios has not played since March 2025, earning his only victory of the season in Miami before falling to Karen Khachanov and missing the rest of the action.
"Obviously, I have some great memories here. Brissy, for me, is one of the best tournaments you could possibly play on tour. I do not know if I'm ever going be able to feel that again.
Nick Kyrgios, Miami 2025© Stream screenshot
Just to be here and be a part of it – the Aussie summer is obviously something very special to every Aussie tennis player. To have the opportunity and blessing to step out here again is pretty special.
When you are healthy, you are literally just playing one match. You just get physio, you go back to your hotel – it's pretty simple. But when you are not, you are kind of load managing and rehabbing, and then gymming and doing conditioning, and then you are on court.
You are actually doing more. I think after every injury I have had these last couple of years, and to see how quickly something can be snatched away from you, I kind of just want to take it. I have had some amazing matches on the biggest stages.
I want to get through this and be happy with my performance. Ultimately, I want to go out there and put on a show for the crowd and the people," Nick Kyrgios said.
