Nick Kyrgios says he is “nearing 100 per cent to play” despite picking up a low-level abdominal strain that sidelined him from playing an exhibition match against Novak Djokovic on Thursday.
With the start of the Australian Open just three days away, the 29-year-old said he wasn’t taking anything for granted as he prepares for his first major since the 2022 US Open.
Nick Kyrgios powers a forehand.Credit: Getty Images
“I would probably say I’m nearing probably 100 per cent to play. I can take a lot of painkillers and I can try to tough it out, even though it’s probably not the smartest thing to do,” Kyrgios said.
“Look, as I’ve said, this could be my last Australian Open. It’s not like I’m announcing my retirement, but I don’t know how many times I’m going to be able to come back here and be a part of this amazing event. It’s one of the best events we have as tennis players.
“So, I’m not going to take it for granted, I’ll do everything I absolutely can to get out there. You know, I was at the top of the game, and top of my game, when I got injured, so I definitely miss going out there and winning, for sure.”
Kyrgios played his first match in 18 months in Brisbane last week, where he lost to big-serving Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a three-set thriller.
Kyrgios during his match against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard of France during day three of the 2025 Brisbane International at Pat Rafter Arena.Credit: Getty Images
He said he was abstaining from serving during practice sessions to give himself the best chance to be on the court come round one.
“Look it’s a day by day kind of process with where I’m at physically,” Kyrgios said.
“I feel super excited, obviously [the] draw just came out, I have that anxiety, the nerves, I think that’s what I missed. If I didn’t feel any of that, I probably would have stopped playing. Had a good hit today, still got three days before the tournament kicks off.
“My body feels good. Good enough to stay in the draw and hopefully compete. But look, I’m doing everything I can … I didn’t serve today … I just do whatever the physio says, whatever the doctors kind of tell me to do, just to give it time to heal, and do whatever I can to get out there.”
Kyrgios has drawn Brit Jacob Fearnley for his first-round clash before a potential meet-up with No.18 seed Sebastian Baez.
“I play Fearnley, I think he’s a Great British tennis player, he’s had a couple of good years now establishing himself in the top 100,” Kyrgios said.
“He actually took Novak [Djokovic] to four sets at Wimbledon. I think I commentated that one, so he’s definitely dangerous and plays with a lot of confidence, got nothing to lose, I’ve got a big target on my back I know now with whoever I play, so it’s going to be a good one.”
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