Post by : Mara Rahim
Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has confirmed his participation in the 2026 Kooyong Classic, an exhibition event that serves as a precursor to the Australian Open. This announcement highlights Kyrgios’ aim to re-enter competitive tennis following a tumultuous 2025 season marred by injuries.
The 30-year-old, recognized for his dynamic playing style, has faced substantial career-threatening injuries that limited him to just five singles matches last year. His last competitive outing was at the Miami Open in March, which significantly impacted his world ranking, placing him at 666th without a protected status.
Due to his current ranking, Kyrgios is likely to require wildcards for ATP warm-up tournaments leading up to the Australian Open and for the Grand Slam event itself. However, it’s anticipated that wildcards will be available, considering his previous successes at events like the Brisbane International and his enduring popularity with fans at Melbourne Park.
Kyrgios' calendar for the remainder of 2025 includes several exhibition matches, notably a highly publicized “battle of the sexes” against Aryna Sabalenka in Dubai on December 28. These matches are aimed at regaining his competitive fitness ahead of the new season.
Next year's Kooyong Classic promises a robust lineup, featuring notable Italian players such as Davis Cup stars Flavio Cobolli and Matteo Berrettini, along with World No. 8 Lorenzo Musetti also confirmed for the men’s roster. The tournament, which was cancelled this year due to operational challenges, is set to return from January 13 to 15, just days ahead of the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.
Kyrgios’ return is likely to attract considerable attention from both fans and media alike. His unpredictable style, characterized by powerful serves and clever shot-making, has garnered him a global fan base. Organizers expect his presence to significantly enhance ticket sales and viewership for the Kooyong Classic, a crucial lead-in to the Grand Slam season.
The Kooyong Classic offers players a chance to acclimatize to the Australian match conditions, fine-tune strategies, and build confidence on hard courts before the Australian Open. For Kyrgios, this exhibition represents a vital component of his recovery and return to form.
In addition to Kyrgios, the tournament will provide other top players with opportunities to hone their skills, engage with fans, and participate in competitive play before the first Grand Slam of the year. The revival of the Kooyong Classic is viewed as a significant boon for tennis enthusiasts and an ideal platform for Kyrgios as he prepares to make his much-anticipated comeback.
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