Australian tennis star Thanasi Kokkinakis has delivered a firm response to those criticising his choice to withdraw from the Australian Open singles competition while still planning to contest the men's doubles.
Defending the Doubles Decision
Kokkinakis addressed the controversy directly on Friday, pushing back against suggestions he should not play doubles if unfit for singles. The 29-year-old from South Australia argued that critics fundamentally misunderstand the physical demands of the two formats. "There's a lot of people that say, 'Oh, if you're not ready for singles, why are you playing doubles?'" Kokkinakis said. "Those people haven't played tennis and don't know how different it is." He confirmed his readiness for the doubles event, stating, "I'll be good to go for doubles."
A Painful Withdrawal After Adelaide Flare-Up
The decision to pull out of the singles draw at Melbourne Park was described as "agonising" for Kokkinakis. It followed a shoulder injury that resurfaced during the Adelaide International this week, forcing his retirement from that tournament. This setback is particularly frustrating as it comes after a 12-month absence from the tour following pectoral surgery in February last year.
Kokkinakis made a promising return in Adelaide, securing a first-round victory over American Sebastian Korda. However, he was unable to continue. "I could play a couple of sets probably, but the problem is grand slam matches are never easy," he explained. "I didn't want to be the guy that plays one and then has to pull out in the second round. I'd rather give that spot to someone else that will be ready to play healthy."
Long-Term Focus for Comeback Trail
Despite the disappointment, Kokkinakis is trying to view the situation positively. He described the withdrawal as a "tough pill" to swallow but a necessary one for his career longevity. The call was made in consultation with his team, who convinced him it was the prudent move. "It's the best decision for my career going forward," Kokkinakis affirmed. "I've still got a lot of good tennis in me and I think I showed that a little bit last week."
He highlighted the specific challenge of a five-set grand slam format so soon after his long layoff. "But five sets is a different beast to come back and play my first couple of events there," he noted. The former world No. 65 remains optimistic about his future, adding, "Everything else is feeling good and I'm confident I'll get back to my best shortly."
All attention now turns to his highly anticipated doubles partnership. Kokkinakis will reunite with Nick Kyrgios as the 'Special Ks', the fan-favourite duo who captured the nation by winning the Australian Open men's doubles title in 2022. Their box-office pairing is sure to be a major drawcard for local crowds at Melbourne Park.
