Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios marked a significant return to competitive tennis with a thrilling victory at the Brisbane International. This emotional doubles match saw Kokkinakis, who had not competed for nearly a year due to a severe pectoral injury, team up with his long-time friend Kyrgios to defeat elite doubles specialists Matt Ebden and Rajeev Ram with a score of 5-7, 6-4, 10-8.
Kokkinakis, 29, underwent groundbreaking surgery that involved attaching a donor’s Achilles tendon to his shoulder, a procedure that hinted at the severity of his condition. Following a period of rehabilitation that included consultations with various medical professionals, including specialists who have worked with tennis great Rafael Nadal, Kokkinakis found himself back on the court.
In an on-court interview after the match, Kokkinakis openly shared his emotions. “I’ve never really teared up after a doubles match,” he said, reflecting on the journey he has taken over the past year. He expressed gratitude for the support he received, stating, “A lot of surgeons, doctors.” Despite initial struggles with rustiness, both players showcased their skills, with Kokkinakis delivering impressive forehand winners and a crucial reflex volley to seal the match.
The duo previously won the Australian Open doubles title together in January 2022 but faced significant challenges since then, with Kokkinakis sidelined following their withdrawal from the same event last year. His struggles with injury have been ongoing, as he noted that his career-high ranking of 65 in the world has been marred by physical setbacks. “I said I didn’t want to keep doing what I was doing,” he explained. “Play one match, maybe have a big win, and then my arm was shot.”
The unique nature of Kokkinakis’s rehabilitation led to moments of doubt. “There’s been days it’s been OK and others where I’ve thought, ‘There’s no chance I’m playing again,’” he admitted. Despite these challenges, he is determined to continue pursuing his tennis career. “I don’t know what my future holds, but I’ve done everything I can do give myself a chance,” he said.
Kokkinakis is set to return to singles competition at the Adelaide International next week, while Kyrgios, who is also coming back after his own injury difficulties, will face Aleksandar Kovacevic in singles on Tuesday. Kyrgios commented on the emotional aspect of their comebacks, stating, “I understand how emotional it can be. People underestimate how much work goes into it.”
The pair’s surprising performance against two of the best doubles players in the world has left them optimistic about what the future may hold. “Who knows what this year could look like for us, doubles-wise?” Kyrgios added, hinting at the potential for more success together on the court.
Their journey illustrates the resilience and determination required to overcome physical barriers in professional sports, making their victory in Brisbane not just a win, but a powerful testament to their commitment to the game.
