Australian tennis talent Alexei Popyrin has declared a definitive end to his 2025 struggles, arriving in Brisbane with a revitalised outlook and a clear goal to make his mark at the upcoming Australian Open.
Leaving the 'Down Patch' Behind
Popyrin, the former world No.19, has openly discussed the mental and physical hurdles that defined a difficult year. The low point came at Wimbledon, where a shock first-round defeat to world No.461 Arthur Fery sent him into a significant slump. This was compounded by a two-month layoff due to a back injury and a growing weariness from the relentless tour schedule.
"It started off at Wimbledon. I went through a little bit of a down patch there," the 26-year-old admitted. "Then I got injured after that and got kicked back down. When I came back from injury I wasn’t enjoying travelling." Recognising the need for change, Popyrin committed to a new approach with his team after the season concluded.
A Refreshed Approach On and Off the Court
Following the 2025 season, Popyrin, currently ranked 54th globally, returned to his Dubai base for an extended two-month break and pre-season training—the longest homestay he's had since the COVID pandemic. This period of rest and reset, which included hosting his fiancée's family for Christmas, proved transformative.
"I feel completely different to how I felt coming into Brisbane last year," he said, describing himself as refreshed and positive. His new philosophy centres on enjoying life off the court to enhance performance on it. "I just want to forget about last year and try and get that new mindset going," Popyrin stated, emphasising his focus on the future.
Family Focus and Brisbane First
Integral to his fresh start is having family support on the road, something he believes many tennis professionals lack. His sister and her children have joined him in Brisbane, helping to create a familiar and supportive environment.
While the Australian Open is the major prize on the horizon, Popyrin's immediate priority is the Brisbane International, running from January 4-11. He anticipates a tough opening match but is determined to build momentum from there.
"It is still home, Australia. Every time I come back it still feels like the place I grew up," Popyrin said, contrasting the feeling with his practical home base in Dubai. With a spring in his step and a renewed belief in his capacities, Alexei Popyrin is stepping onto the court in 2026 with a clear mission to reignite his career on home soil.
