Australian Open 2025: Nick Kyrgios aims to return to Grand Slam play after more than 2 years away
Associated PressMELBOURNE, Australia — Love him or hate him, Nick Kyrgios is good for tennis and the sport will get a boost from his return to Grand Slam action at the Australian Open — or so he says. Every time I step out on court, I don’t know if I’m going to be super controversial in a good or bad way,” 2022 Wimbledon runner-up Kyrgios said on Friday, when he indicated he thinks he’ll be able to compete despite a recent issue with an abdominal muscle. “Throughout my career, it hasn’t always been good,” continued the 29-year-old Australian, wearing a green hat in support of his favorite NBA team, the reigning champion Boston Celtics, “but it’s added a lot of excitement to the game.” As play begins at Melbourne Park on Sunday, Kyrgios is sure to be among the players garnering the most attention from spectators, media and other athletes, assuming, that is, he is fit enough. “I know that people don’t like when I just speak out about things,” Kyrgios said recently, “and honest about things.” The most recent major tournament that Kyrgios was able to participate in was the 2022 U.S. Open. When it comes to Kyrgios’ talent, other players tend to agree with Jordan Thompson’s assessment Friday: “If he’s fit, he’s a contender.” Daniil Medvedev, the 2021 U.S. Open champion and a three-time runner-up at Melbourne Park, said a healthy Kyrgios is “definitely great for tennis.” “I would love to see him play against Carlos and Jannik.