Nick Kyrgios, once a formidable force in tennis and a crowd favorite, faced an early exit in the first round of the Australian Open 2025. In his much-anticipated singles match, Kyrgios was defeated in straight sets by Britain’s Jacob Fearnley, a rising talent who capitalized on Kyrgios’ lack of match sharpness. It marked another setback in Kyrgios’ bid to reclaim his form after a two-year hiatus from competitive tennis due to injuries.
The disappointment extended into the doubles competition, where Kyrgios teamed up with his close friend and fellow Australian, Thanasi Kokkinakis. The pair, who had captured the Australian Open doubles title in 2022 in a thrilling run, were unable to replicate their past success. Kokkinakis, struggling with his own physical limitations, was forced to retire during the second set of their opening match against Aleksandar Vukic and James Duckworth. The early exit underscored the physical challenges both players are facing as they attempt to navigate a demanding sport.
Speaking to the media after his doubles loss, Kyrgios reflected candidly on his future in tennis. “I don’t know what this season will bring me. I’ve been out for two years, and while I think I hit the ball well, I’m very far from my pre-injury level,” he admitted. Despite moments of brilliance, Kyrgios acknowledged the difficulty of returning to elite-level competition, especially with recurring physical issues.
Notably, Kyrgios hinted that 2025 could mark the end of his singles career. “Personally, I’m not interested in playing singles after this year,” he said. “The effort required to stay at the elite level doesn’t guarantee I can play a week without physical problems. I’ve enjoyed playing on these courts again—they mean a lot to me—but I have to be realistic about what my body can handle.”
Looking ahead, Kyrgios revealed that he may shift his focus exclusively to doubles, where the physical demands are less intense. “It’s easier on the body,” he noted, expressing hope that he and Kokkinakis could continue their successful partnership. However, he tempered expectations by admitting there are no concrete plans for the future. “I can’t guarantee that I’ll compete on these courts again,” Kyrgios concluded, leaving fans to speculate about his next moves.
The 2025 Australian Open marked an emotional and uncertain chapter for Kyrgios, a player who has thrilled audiences with his talent and charisma. Whether his career transitions into doubles or winds down entirely, Kyrgios remains a magnetic figure in the tennis world, even as his future hangs in the balance.
