Nick Kyrgios has ruled himself out of this week’s United Cup in Sydney and has been advised to take “precautionary measures” for the next two weeks leading into the Australian Open.
Kyrgios on Wednesday withdrew from the United Cup only 24 hours before his opening match, which was to be the first time he’s played in Australia since the Wimbledon final.
The Kyrgios camp told the Herald and The Age Kyrgios suffered an ankle injury during an exhibition tournament in Dubai last week. He practised in Sydney on Tuesday before deciding against competing in the United Cup the following day.
“Nick suffered an ankle injury while playing in Dubai and he has been advised by his team that he needs to take precautionary measures for two weeks leading into the Australian Open to give him the best chance at being fit and healthy,” a member of Kyrgios’ camp said.
“Australian Open is his priority, so we must do what it takes to make sure he is able to play at the best of his ability. He is disappointed that he can’t help the launch of the United Cup and fingers crossed he will get another opportunity next year to lead the team.”
His Australian teammates learned of Kyrgios’ omission just 10 minutes before they fronted cameras for a press conference at Sydney Olympic Park.
Kyrgios, who only arrived in the country earlier this week after spending Christmas abroad, cited a need to recover from several injuries as the reason for missing the $22 million mixed-gender event in Sydney.
Tournament officials announced Kyrgios’ withdrawal moments before Australia’s team members were due to front a press conference.
He was due to play Great Britain’s Cameron Norrie and Spain’s Rafael Nadal in his two round robin singles matches.
More to come
