Nick Kyrgios marked a triumphant return to the court at the Miami Open, securing his first win since October 2022 after overcoming a series of injuries that threatened his career. The Australian tennis star defeated Mackenzie McDonald in a thrilling three-set match, calling the victory “special” after an emotional and challenging journey back to competitive tennis. This win signifies a major milestone for Kyrgios, who has been sidelined with knee, foot, and wrist issues requiring multiple surgeries.
Kyrgios Breaks 896-Day Drought with Miami Open Win
Kyrgios’ victory over Mackenzie McDonald at the Miami Open ended a long drought of 896 days since his last win in Tokyo in October 2022. The match, which saw Kyrgios triumph 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, was a testament to his resilience and determination after a challenging period marked by injuries and surgeries.
An Emotional Rollercoaster
Kyrgios described his journey back to competitive tennis as an “emotional rollercoaster,” admitting that he had moments of self-doubt and questioned whether he would ever return to the sport.
Overcoming Physical Challenges
The 29-year-old has faced a series of physical setbacks, including knee, foot, and wrist issues that required multiple surgeries. In September 2023, Kyrgios underwent what he described as a “full wrist reconstruction” surgery.
“A Long Journey”: Kyrgios Reflects on Injury Struggles
Kyrgios opened up about his grueling journey back to competitive tennis, admitting he was on the brink of tears following the win. “It’s been a long journey, even to just get to the start line of matches and be scared to even be able to finish them,” he confessed.
Doubts About Returning
He further confessed that there were moments when he doubted his return to the sport. He recounted conversations with his team, expressing his uncertainty about continuing in the sport that has been his life for so long.
The Australian Open Disappointment
Kyrgios’ comeback from the wrist injury didn’t go as planned at the Australian Open. He also retired early from a match at Indian Wells due to wrist pain.
Miami Open Victory: A Turning Point?
The Miami Open victory could be a turning point for Kyrgios, who is hoping to regain his form and fitness after a long period of inactivity.
“A Bit More Petrol in the Tank”
Kyrgios believes the Miami win has given him extra motivation. “This (win) puts some petrol in the tank but I need to be realistic and see how my wrist feels tomorrow because it is a grind out here,” he said.
Facing Khachanov Next
In the next round, Kyrgios will face Karen Khachanov in a rematch of their US Open 2022 quarterfinal, which Khachanov won in five sets. Kyrgios has a mixed record against Khachanov, with one win and one loss in their previous encounters. “I’ll see how this week goes, will I beat Khachanov? Probably not,” Kyrgios admitted. “I’ll give it a go and take it week by week.”
From Wimbledon Finalist to Injury Woes: Kyrgios’ Career Trajectory
The former Wimbledon finalist, once ranked 13th in the world, has experienced a significant drop in the rankings due to his injury struggles.
Stellar 2022 Season
Kyrgios enjoyed a stellar 2022 season, reaching the final of Wimbledon, clinching the Washington title, and securing multiple top 10 victories.
Injury Setbacks
However, his career was derailed by a series of injuries, including a knee injury that forced him to pull out of the 2023 Australian Open and a wrist injury that sidelined him for the entire 2024 season.
Kyrgios Joins Lawsuit Against Tennis Governing Bodies
Adding another layer to his comeback narrative, Kyrgios has also joined a lawsuit against tennis’s governing bodies, accusing them of anti-competitive practices and disregard for player welfare. This legal action underscores Kyrgios’ outspoken nature and willingness to challenge the status quo in the sport.
Will Kyrgios’ Body Hold Up?
Kyrgios’ return to the winner’s circle is more than just a routine victory. It’s a reminder of the raw talent and unpredictability that makes him one of the sport’s most compelling figures. The emotion he showed after match point speaks volumes about the mental and physical toll of his time away from the game. With his first win in over two years, there’s a sense that something special could be brewing in Miami, if his body can support him.
Kyrgios Hints at Quitting
Kyrgios has hinted that his Miami Open campaign could already be over despite winning his first match in more than two years. The Aussie admitted he needed to see how his wrist felt after winning a three-set match, hinting that he could be forced to pull out of the tournament.
Pain Management
When meeting the press, Kyrgios, wearing his favorite team colors, a Boston Celtics sweatshirt and cap, said he took five painkillers for his tightly wrapped wrist and that after the match it was numb. It didn’t seem to hamper his booming 134-mph serves that helped him win 77 percent of his first serves (13 aces) or his whippet topspin forehands (32 winners overall to 29 unforced errors).
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