Nick Kyrgios Withdraws from Australian Open Singles, Focuses on Doubles with Thanasi Kokkinakis

Australian Open boss Craig Tiley endorses Kyrgios' decision, citing no guarantees for a singles wildcard

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:40pm by

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A cubist-style painting depicting a tennis doubles match, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a vibrant color palette, capturing the energy and dynamism of the sport.Kyrgios' decision to focus on doubles at the Australian Open reflects the challenges of managing injuries and prioritizing long-term performance over short-term results.San Francisco Today

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios, who turns 31 in April, has announced his decision to withdraw from singles play at the upcoming Australian Open. Instead, Kyrgios will focus on competing in doubles with his longtime partner Thanasi Kokkinakis. Australian Open boss Craig Tiley has endorsed Kyrgios' choice, revealing that no guarantees were made regarding a singles wildcard for the veteran player.

Why it matters

Kyrgios' decision highlights the challenges he has faced in recent years due to injuries, with only six singles matches played in the past three years. By prioritizing doubles, Kyrgios aims to manage his fitness and performance, while still contributing to the tournament. Tiley's support for Kyrgios' self-assessment showcases the tournament's commitment to open dialogue and player well-being.

The details

Following their second-round doubles loss at the Brisbane International, Kyrgios and his team had discussions with Tiley about his participation in the Australian Open. Kyrgios expressed his preference for a singles wildcard to be awarded to a more prepared player, while still planning to compete in doubles with Kokkinakis, his 2022 Australian Open doubles partner. Kyrgios cited his recent wrist and knee surgeries, as well as the challenge of five-set matches, as factors in his decision to focus on doubles.

  • Kyrgios turns 31 in April 2026.
  • Kyrgios and Kokkinakis lost in the second round of the 2026 Brisbane International doubles event.
  • Kyrgios has played only six singles matches in the past three years due to injuries.

The players

Nick Kyrgios

A 31-year-old Australian tennis player who has decided to withdraw from singles play at the 2026 Australian Open in order to focus on doubles with his longtime partner Thanasi Kokkinakis.

Thanasi Kokkinakis

An Australian tennis player who will partner with Nick Kyrgios in the doubles event at the 2026 Australian Open.

Craig Tiley

The boss of the Australian Open, who has endorsed Kyrgios' decision to withdraw from singles play and focus on doubles.

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What they’re saying

“We must support Nick's decision and his self-assessment of his fitness and performance. No guarantees were made regarding a singles wildcard, and we endorse his choice to prioritize his health and doubles play.”

— Craig Tiley, Australian Open Boss

“After my recent surgeries and limited singles matches, I feel it's best for me to focus on doubles this year with Thanasi. I want to give a singles wildcard to a player who is more prepared.”

— Nick Kyrgios

What’s next

Kyrgios and Kokkinakis will receive wildcards for the Australian Open doubles draw, showcasing the tournament's commitment to supporting top players' decisions.

The takeaway

Kyrgios' decision to withdraw from singles play at the Australian Open and focus on doubles highlights the challenges athletes face in managing injuries and fitness, and the importance of open communication between players and tournament organizers. The Australian Open's support for Kyrgios' self-assessment demonstrates a player-centric approach that prioritizes long-term health and performance over short-term results.