Nick Kyrgios' highly anticipated return to singles competition has ended abruptly, with the Australian talent bundled out in the first round of the Brisbane International in just over an hour.
Clinical Defeat in Comeback Match
The former world No. 13 was clinically beaten by American Aleksandar Kovacevic 6-3, 6-4 in 66 minutes on Tuesday. This marked Kyrgios' first ATP Tour singles match since March and only his seventh in three years, following multiple knee and wrist surgeries.
Playing his first serious singles match after a handful of exhibition appearances late last year and a doubles win in Brisbane on Sunday, Kyrgios struggled to gain any momentum. The match was decided on a few key service games where the Australian's timing appeared off.
Key Moments and Injury Concerns
At 3-4 in the first set, Kyrgios overplayed a drop shot and missed a forehand volley to drop serve. In the second set, after holding comfortably to reach 4-4, he again surrendered his serve with a series of sluggish points. Throughout the match, he occasionally appeared hampered, grabbing at his elbow at one stage.
The statistics told a stark story. World No. 58 Kovacevic produced 27 winners to Kyrgios' 10 and was dominant on his first serve, losing just one point when he landed it. Kyrgios did show flashes of his characteristic flair, including an underarm serve, and was seen chatting to his brother in the stands between games.
Opponent's Perspective and Uncertain Future
"A tough one to approach, you don't know what you're going to get with Nick, whether he's healthy or not," Kovacevic said after the win. "And tough to scout him recently, because he hasn't been on Tour for a while and playing serious matches. I just knew I had to be pretty locked in."
The immediate future for Kyrgios, now ranked world No. 670, is unclear. He is yet to hear if he will receive a wildcard for this month's Australian Open. He is scheduled to play at the Kooyong Classic next week but has stated his playing plans are uncertain.
For now, Kyrgios remains in the Brisbane International draw, progressing to the second round of the doubles competition alongside compatriot Thanasi Kokkinakis.
