Nick Kyrgios is making strides in his preparation for a comeback to professional tennis, with his sights set on a high-stakes return at the 2025 Australian Open. The charismatic Australian star, known as much for his powerful serves and court theatrics as for his volatile style, is eager to return to the court in front of his home crowd. The Australian Open remains a tantalizing goal for Kyrgios, who, despite his prowess, has yet to advance beyond the quarterfinals in Melbourne. However, with renewed focus, physical conditioning, and a refreshed mindset, he hopes to finally make his mark in his national Grand Slam.
Kyrgios has not competed professionally since the 2023 Stuttgart Open, where he fell in his opening match to China’s Wu Yibing. Following that tournament, persistent knee and wrist injuries forced him to withdraw from further events, and his absence has been felt in the tennis world. The Australian’s outspoken and entertaining approach to the game has won him both passionate fans and vocal critics, but he’s known for his ability to electrify matches with a style few players can emulate. Despite the time away, Kyrgios remains as confident as ever in his ability to compete, stating on *The Louis Theroux Podcast* that he feels ready to take on his peers, if not surpass them.
In the interview, Kyrgios explained that he could “probably beat 50% of the players” currently on tour if he returned now, though he added that this isn’t his ultimate goal. “I could come back now and beat 50% of players, but I don’t want to do that. My fans deserve a better version of myself on the court,” he explained, hinting at his intention to bring his best form upon his return. “I want to go out there competing for tournaments. When you make the finals of Wimbledon, the quarterfinals of Grand Slams, and you’re winning events, you want to return with a real chance to win, not just to participate.”
The Australian’s run to the Wimbledon final in 2022 was one of the highlights of his career, where he met and ultimately lost to Novak Djokovic, now a friend and mentor of sorts to Kyrgios. Despite the defeat, the performance marked Kyrgios’ potential to challenge the very best in the game. His competitive edge and explosive playing style were on full display during that Wimbledon run, and he aims to bring that same level of intensity back to the court. The Wimbledon finals experience solidified for Kyrgios that he belongs among the elite players, and he’s looking to build on that foundation.
Kyrgios’ goals for 2025 will, however, face stiff opposition. Rising stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have taken the tour by storm with their relentless play and consistency, quickly establishing themselves as Grand Slam contenders. Meanwhile, Djokovic, undeterred by age, is still vying for titles, setting new records and adding to his Grand Slam tally. Although veterans like Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray may be easing out of the spotlight, Djokovic remains a formidable force. The Australian Open will likely see these top-tier players vying for dominance, creating a challenging environment for Kyrgios as he returns.
Beyond his physical preparation, Kyrgios is aware that his return to the tour will involve mental resilience, as he anticipates a “hostile reception” from some quarters. Known for his sometimes contentious interactions with fans and media, Kyrgios acknowledges the unique pressures he faces as one of the sport’s most scrutinized figures. “I know the world is not going to be nice to me when I come back. People are going to forget I was out for a year-and-a-half with injuries. It’ll be the same expectations again, and when I lose, it won’t be okay,” he explained. “I’ll have to be resilient mentally and physically, but I’m in great shape.”
One of the main motivators driving Kyrgios’ return is his relationship with the home crowd at the Australian Open. The tournament, held in Melbourne, is known for its passionate fans who rally around local players, and Kyrgios has consistently drawn large, enthusiastic crowds. However, he’s also aware of the intense pressure and expectations from his Australian fan base, which he both embraces and finds challenging. The Australian Open offers him a chance to connect with his supporters and, potentially, to make history on home soil.
Kyrgios’ journey back to form hasn’t been easy, but he remains optimistic about his chances. While he’s known for his unconventional approach to training and competition, his commitment to a high level of play has not wavered. With an unpredictable mix of high-energy shots, a powerful serve, and a strategic mind, Kyrgios has always brought an element of surprise to the tour, and fans are eagerly anticipating what he’ll bring to the 2025 season.
The road back is likely to be filled with challenges, both physically and mentally. Yet Kyrgios’ determination to return at his best reflects his evolution as a player who is maturing and focusing on a legacy beyond the drama. He has expressed a genuine appreciation for his fans’ support and a commitment to competing at a high level, making his journey back to the tour not just about wins and losses, but about proving something to himself and the broader tennis world. Whether or not he clinches the title in Melbourne, Kyrgios is sure to bring excitement and unpredictability to the court—a hallmark of his career that fans and critics alike will be watching closely.