n a twist that has electrified the tennis world, Nick Kyrgios is poised to make a dramatic return to the French Open in 2025, ending an eight-year absence from Roland Garros’ red clay. The 30-year-old Australian, known for his flamboyant style and polarizing persona, will not be competing in singles but has teamed up with compatriot Jordan Thompson for the men’s doubles tournament, a decision sparked by unexpected circumstances. This comeback, set to unfold from May 25 to June 8, marks a new chapter for Kyrgios, who has battled a litany of injuries and openly criticized clay-court tennis in the past.
Kyrgios last graced the French Open in 2017, exiting in the second round against Kevin Anderson in a four-set battle. That year, seeded 18th, he arrived in Paris shaken by the loss of his grandfather, admitting, “After my grandpa passing, I just lost a lot of motivation to do anything, really.” His disdain for clay was no secret; in 2019, he famously declared that the French Open “sucks” compared to Wimbledon, calling for the end of clay-court tennis. Yet, the lure of Roland Garros has drawn him back, not for singles glory but for a doubles adventure prompted by a sudden opportunity. “The French Open was never really on the cards,” Kyrgios told reporters, “but after the stuff with Max Purcell, Jordan was looking for a partner and he asked me if I wanted to play.”
The catalyst for this move was the 18-month doping ban handed to Thompson’s regular doubles partner, Max Purcell, effective from December 2024. Purcell’s absence left Thompson, a US Open doubles champion, in need of a new ally. Kyrgios, with his own Grand Slam doubles pedigree—having won the 2022 Australian Open alongside Thanasi Kokkinakis—stepped up, eager to “have a bit of fun” in Paris. The duo, both vocal critics of Purcell’s ban, which they branded a “joke,” aim to make a statement on the clay. Their partnership is already generating buzz, with fans noting that a Kyrgios at 80% fitness paired with Thompson’s steady doubles prowess could pose a formidable threat.
Kyrgios’ 2025 season has been a rocky one, marred by persistent injuries to his foot, knee, and wrist. He has played just four singles matches this year, securing a sole victory at the Miami Open against Mackenzie McDonald. His return to competitive tennis began in December 2024 at the World Tennis League in Abu Dhabi, followed by a headline-grabbing appearance at the Brisbane International. There, he and Novak Djokovic thrilled a capacity crowd with a three-set doubles win, but Kyrgios fell in singles to Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a three-tiebreak epic, requiring medical attention for his wrist. At the Australian Open, he suffered a first-round singles loss to Jacob Fearnley and retired mid-match in doubles due to Kokkinakis’ shoulder injury. A withdrawal at Indian Wells after re-injuring his wrist further underscored his physical struggles.
Despite these setbacks, Kyrgios’ passion for the game endures. “I’m excited to get out there and play,” he said, crediting his physiotherapist Will Maher and coach James Frawley for their daily support. His decision to play doubles in Paris, rather than singles, reflects a cautious approach to managing his injuries, especially with Wimbledon—where he reached the 2022 final—looming as his primary focus. Kyrgios, ranked outside the top 500, would need a wildcard to enter the French Open singles or qualifying draw, a prospect made unlikely by the French Tennis Federation’s preference for local players. Instead, doubles offers a lower-impact stage to showcase his booming serves and electrifying shot-making.
The Kyrgios-Thompson pairing is a compelling narrative. Thompson, ranked No. 11 in doubles, brings experience and grit, while Kyrgios adds unpredictability and star power. Their planned collaboration extends beyond Paris, with Wimbledon also on their radar. For Kyrgios, this return is as much about enjoyment as competition. “With this part of my career, I’m excited to travel the world and do some fun things whilst I’m out there,” he shared, hinting at a broader perspective shaped by years of adversity, including a recent split from long-term partner Costeen Hatzi in March 2025.
Kyrgios’ French Open record is modest, with a 50% win rate across five appearances and third-round finishes in 2015 and 2016 as his best results. Yet, his return, even in doubles, promises to inject chaos and charisma into Roland Garros. Fans recall his 2022 Australian Open doubles triumph, where he and Kokkinakis, dubbed the “Special Ks,” captivated crowds with their audacious play. A similar spectacle could unfold in Paris, where Kyrgios’ flair—think between-the-legs shots and fiery exchanges—will contrast with the clay’s grinding demands.
As the tennis world awaits the French Open, Kyrgios’ comeback adds an element of unpredictability. Will he and Thompson upset the doubles field? Can Kyrgios stay healthy for the grass season? One thing is certain: his presence ensures that Roland Garros will be anything but mundane. “I think the sport was getting a bit mundane,” Kyrgios remarked earlier this year, and with his return, he’s ready to shake things up once more.
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