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Nick Kyrgios’s long-awaited return to the Grand Slam stage was cut short as Jacob Fearnley sent the ailing home hero out of the Australian Open in the first round.
Australian Open 2025: Nick Kyrgios against Jacob Fearnley (AP and X)
Nick Kyrgios failed to clear the first hurdle at the Australian Open, swearing and in pain but did entertain his Aussie fans with some fancy shots on his way out.
He took a nonchalant swing and that too with the return behind him from Britain’s Jacob Fearnley on Monday.
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A capacity crowd packed out Kyrgios’s favourite John Cain Arena for his first match at Melbourne Park in three years, hoping the tennis showman could shrug off an abdominal strain to battle through.
Most left deflated as Kyrgios went down swinging in a 7-6(3) 6-3 7-6(2) defeat, with the injury hampering his serve and movement.
Kyrgios spoke to physios multiple times in the second set after wincing in pain while serving and fired expletives at his coaching box.
With most of his last two seasons wiped out due to knee problems and wrist surgery, a gloomy Kyrgios said he might have played his last singles match at Melbourne Park given his injury fatigue.
“I went out there, I would say 65% of my capacity,” he told reporters.
“For (the fans) to really see me fighting and still giving me that energy, it meant a lot, because I feel like I’ve given my life to tennis and I’ve tried to give them a show every time I go out there.
“Realistically, I can’t see myself playing a singles match here again.”
The Aussie star exited the arena quickly with a single kiss blown at the crowd.
“No regrets,” said Kyrgios, who plans to return for the doubles with compatriot Thanasi Kokkinakis. “My journey is not over, but I’ve had an amazing journey. My career’s been amazing.
“I continue to try and have fun, just be real, and enjoy the ride.
“But I think it would be selfish for me to say that I want more. I’ve had a lot of success. More than most athletes would have.”
Jacob Fearnley set up a second round match with Frenchman Arthur Cazaux.
“Sorry for Nick, I could tell he was dealing with some stuff. But I thought it was a great match and I really enjoyed playing with you guys.
“All things considered, it’s probably the best match (I’ve played).”
(With inputs from Agencies)
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