Nick Kyrgios has suffered another blow in his injury-riddled career, pulling out of the French Open due to a fresh knee problem. The setback has cast more doubt on the future of the former Wimbledon finalist, who has struggled to stay fit in recent years.
Kyrgios had planned to return to Grand Slam action for the first time in eight years at Roland Garros, playing doubles alongside fellow Australian Jordan Thompson. However, just days before the tournament, he informed Thompson he would be unable to compete due to the new injury.
“Nick was really excited to play here,” Thompson told reporters. “He kept checking in with me, asking, ‘You ready to go for doubles at Roland Garros?’ He was training on clay back in Australia, but then he said something happened to his knee, and he couldn’t make it.”
Thompson shared that Kyrgios was deeply upset by the setback. “He was pretty down. He told me he doesn’t know how much more he can take. You really have to feel for him,” Thompson said. “He might say things in the media, but I know he loves the sport and being on court.”
Kyrgios and Thompson had planned this reunion after Max Purcell, Thompson’s regular doubles partner, was suspended for violating anti-doping rules. The two Australians previously played together as juniors, finishing as runners-up at the 2012 US Open.
With Kyrgios sidelined, Thompson will now partner with another Aussie, Jason Kubler. They are set to face French duo Quentin Halys and Albano Olivetti in the first round on Tuesday.
Although Kyrgios won’t compete, he is expected to be at Roland Garros in a different role—this time as a TV commentator. At 30 years old, his focus may be shifting toward media work as his chances of a full tennis comeback grow slim.
“He wants to play, but it all depends on how his knee holds up,” said Thompson.
Kyrgios has battled several injuries in recent years, including issues with his knee, foot, and wrist. He even underwent reconstructive wrist surgery. In March, he finally won his first singles match in over two years at the Miami Open, defeating American Mackenzie McDonald, offering a brief glimpse of hope for a comeback.
Meanwhile, on day two of the French Open, several Australians took to the court. Ajla Tomljanović delivered a strong performance, defeating Morocco Open champion Maya Joint 6-1, 6-3. Alexei Popyrin also broke his losing streak at the tournament.
However, not all Australians had success. Aleksandar Vukic, Chris O’Connell, Daria Saville, Kim Birrell, and a struggling Jordan Thompson all lost their matches. Alex de Minaur is set to begin his campaign on Tuesday.
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