Thanasi Kokkinakis’ Australian Open journey ended in heartbreak as the 28-year-old was forced to retire injured from his doubles match alongside close friend Nick Kyrgios. Despite being advised against playing due to a pectoral injury, Kokkinakis made an emotional decision to step onto the court one last time with Kyrgios, possibly marking the end of their doubles partnership at Melbourne Park.
A painful sacrifice
Kokkinakis entered the Australian Open nursing a pectoral muscle issue that flared up during his five-set singles loss to Jack Draper in the second round. While he had initially ruled out playing doubles, he and Kyrgios still took to the court for their much-anticipated clash against James Duckworth and Alexander Vukic.
However, after a set and a half of visible pain and limited movement, Kokkinakis was unable to continue, handing Duckworth and Vukic a 7-5, 3-2 victory.
“The doctor advised me not to play, and I’m probably going to need a serious surgical procedure now,” Kokkinakis admitted.
A decision fueled by friendship
Despite his injury, Kokkinakis was determined to reunite with Kyrgios for what could be their final match together at Melbourne Park. The duo, affectionately nicknamed the “Special Ks,” won the 2022 Australian Open doubles title and had built a legacy of thrilling performances and packed crowds.
“I just wanted to get on court again with the big fella,” Kokkinakis said. “Such great memories, and we had a big crowd waiting for us. Any other event, any other circumstance, I’m not stepping foot on court, for sure.”
Kokkinakis revealed that he couldn’t serve or hit a high forehand and was in “a lot of pain” throughout the match, underscoring the emotional weight of his decision.
Kyrgios hints at retirement
Kyrgios, who lost in the singles first round, had previously suggested that this Australian Open might be his last as a professional player at Melbourne Park. This context likely added to Kokkinakis’ determination to compete in doubles despite his physical limitations.
For fans, the possibility of Kyrgios stepping away from the sport and Kokkinakis undergoing surgery has cast uncertainty over the future of one of tennis’ most dynamic partnerships.
What’s next for Kokkinakis?
With surgery on the horizon, Kokkinakis faces a challenging road to recovery. The Australian plans to consult with multiple experts to determine the best course of action. His immediate focus will be on regaining full fitness, but his determination to step onto the court despite the odds highlights his unwavering passion for the game.
“I’ve got to speak to as many experts as I can, but I’m in a lot of pain,” Kokkinakis said. “It’s tough, but I wanted to give it one last shot here.”
A bittersweet farewell?
For now, the match against Duckworth and Vukic may serve as a symbolic farewell for the “Special Ks” at the Australian Open. While fans will hope to see them reunited in the future, Kokkinakis’ health and Kyrgios’ career trajectory leave the door open for reflection on what they’ve already achieved.
As the Australian Open moves forward, Kokkinakis’ courage and Kyrgios’ camaraderie remind fans of the human side of professional tennis, where friendship and memories often outweigh trophies.