Australian Open LIVE: In a big disappointment to the Australians, Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from the Australian Open 2023. The 27-year old has pulled out of his ‘home’ slam due to the knee injury. He was due to play his first-round match against Roman Safiullin on Tuesday, 17th January 2023. Follow Australia Open 2023 LIVE updates on InsideSport.IN
Australian Open LIVE: Australia’s hopes dashed, Nick Kyrgios pulls out of Australian Open 2023 with a knee injury – Check Out
Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from the Australian Open with a knee injury. He will be replaced in the draw by lucky loser Denis Kudla. #AusOpen #AO2023
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2023
Nick Kyrgios confirmed the ‘devastating’ news in a press conference on Monday. He was present along with his physiotherapist while announcing his decision. Kyrgios was touted as Australia’s biggest title hope ever since he reached the final at the Wimbledon last year. He was also in the same quarter that has Novak Djokovic, with a potential face-off against the former World No.1 on the cards.
But with his withdrawal, Alex de Minaur, who is the 22nd seed remains the top-ranked Australian in the Men’s Singles draw. In Kyrgios’ absence, Denis Kudla will enter the main draw.
It is revealed that Kyrgios is suffering from a meniscus tear in his knee. “It’s a mixture of emotions,” Kyrgios said announcing his withdrawal. “The last slam I played was the US Open and I was very hard on myself after that. This injury hinders my knee, it hinders my movement.”
“It’s just bad timing. That’s life, you know. Injuries are part of sport … I’m not doubting that I’ll be back to my full strength. Devastated obviously. It’s my home tournament … and going into this event as one of the favourites, it’s brutal.”
Kyrgios last featured in a warm-up match on Friday against Novak Djokovic just before the start of the Australia Open. Kyrgios claimed victory in three sets in the contest. It was his first game this year as he pulled out of the warm-up events in the prevous weeks including the United Cup citing an ankle injury.
