Fit and philosophical, Nick Kyrgios is gearing up for a highly anticipated return to competitive tennis at the Brisbane International, promising fans the full “Kyrgios experience.” The Australian player, known for his flamboyant style and candid personality, will face American Aleksandar Kovacevic in his ATP Tour comeback on Tuesday.
A self-proclaimed “sicko” for the sport, Kyrgios admits he thrives on the challenges and excitement tennis brings. “I am a sicko. I just love it all. I love everything that comes with it,” he remarked. “I don’t know what else to do with myself, to be honest. What else do I do? Celebrity boxing?”
The Road to Recovery
At 30, Kyrgios has faced a tumultuous few years, playing only five Tour matches in 2023 and none in 2024, with just a single appearance the previous year. His career has been marred by multiple knee and wrist surgeries, leaving him without an injury-protected ranking and currently positioned at No. 670, relying on wildcards for tournament entries.
However, a noticeable improvement in his condition towards the end of last year has reignited his competitive spirit. After participating in several exhibition matches to close out 2025, Kyrgios is back in Brisbane, ready to showcase his unique brand of tennis.
The Kyrgios Experience
His return began with a captivating 92-minute doubles match alongside close friend Thanasi Kokkinakis, demonstrating both their skill and camaraderie. Kyrgios, a Wimbledon finalist in 2022, remains true to his unpredictable style on the singles court. “But even on the singles court, I do stupid things, and I kind of do whatever I feel like doing,” he said. “Not taking it too seriously, but also just locking in in certain moments.”
Kyrgios’s approach is a blend of spontaneity and focus, contributing to the entertainment value he brings to the sport. “No-one else does as stupid things as me on the court, so that’s what I add,” he quipped.
Future Prospects and Reflections
Looking ahead, Kyrgios is set to compete in the Kooyong Classic next week and awaits confirmation of an Australian Open wildcard. Reflecting on his journey, he emphasizes the importance of being physically ready for Melbourne Park, following a disappointing first-round exit last year. “I don’t know what my future holds; I’m literally taking it day-by-day,” he stated.
“Every good thing that’s come in my life has come from this sport,” Kyrgios reflected. “And at the end of the day, it’s gone in a flash.”
Support from Fellow Players
Fellow Australian player Alexei Popyrin expressed hope for Kyrgios’s continued presence on the tour. “It’s nice having Nick back on the tour; he puts tennis on the map really well,” Popyrin said. “Hopefully he can stay for the rest of the year. He’s one of the most talented players, so I think if he’s mentally in the right space and physically is in the right shape he’ll come back in and will cause difficulty for everyone.”
As Kyrgios embarks on this latest chapter of his career, the tennis world watches with anticipation, eager to see what the mercurial talent will bring to the court in 2026.
