Injury-plagued Australian tennis star Thanasi Kokkinakis is set to take another serious break from professional tennis after his troublesome shoulder flared up during his brief appearance at the Australian Open. This latest setback represents a potentially career-threatening development for the 29-year-old South Australian.
Doubles Partnership Cut Short by Injury
Kokkinakis had reunited with close friend Nick Kyrgios for their Special Ks doubles partnership during Thursday night's first-round match at Melbourne Park. The duo had hoped to recapture the magic that delivered them a memorable title at the same venue four years earlier.
After serving strongly in the early stages against opponents Jason Kubler and Marc Polmans, Kokkinakis broke down during the deciding set, requiring immediate medical attention for his right shoulder. The Special Ks ultimately bowed out with a 6-4 4-6 7-6 (10-4) loss in front of a boisterous Kia Arena crowd.
Latest in a Series of Setbacks
Kokkinakis believes this latest shoulder issue is connected to the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Adelaide International earlier this month. That same injury led to his agonising decision to skip the Australian Open singles tournament entirely.
"I think I'm going to be on ice for a while," Kokkinakis admitted after the match. "I don't want to play another match feeling like that ever again, so I will take a serious break. I'm in no way, shape or form ready to compete at this level."
The 29-year-old had already endured nearly twelve months on the sidelines following pectoral surgery last February, and now faces another extended period away from competitive tennis as he contemplates his future in the sport.
Career Uncertainty Looms
Kokkinakis revealed he had pre-booked injections for after the tournament, believing he could manage through a doubles appearance. "It's pretty disappointing," he acknowledged about the miscalculation.
The South Australian noted this latest flare-up occurred in a slightly different location than his previous right shoulder issues, though he believes all the problems are interconnected. "My right shoulder has had a lot of wear and tear," he explained.
When pressed about his future prospects, Kokkinakis expressed genuine uncertainty. "It's hard because in the back of your mind sometimes you're accepting, yeah, I don't know how much I have left. But then other parts, I still play some good tennis. I think if I can get this right, I've got a lot left. I don't know."
Immediate Consequences
Following the Special Ks' doubles exit, Kokkinakis immediately informed Davis Cup captain Lleyton Hewitt that his injury would prevent him from participating in Australia's first-round qualifier against Ecuador next month.
"You got to take a healthy body - someone that's a lot more ready than me," Kokkinakis said regarding his Davis Cup availability.
The tennis star remains determined to explore every possible treatment option, stating, "One thing is I'm going to try to do everything I can. If it's completely done, then I'll work that out." His comments reflect the difficult reality facing an athlete whose career has been repeatedly interrupted by physical setbacks.
