Nick Kyrgios is back to winning ways after three years, defeating Mackenzie McDonald 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the first round of the Miami Open. The former World No. 13 turned around a tough opening set and delivered a strong serving performance to celebrate victory in Miami.
The former Wimbledon runner-up arrived in search of his first win since 2022 after a couple of injury-plagued seasons. Since his 2025 return, Kyrgios had competed in three tournaments, all ending in defeat — including a withdrawal due to injury at Indian Wells two weeks ago while facing Botic van de Zandschulp.
First Set: McDonald takes the lead
McDonald, ranked World No. 101, made a fast start, claiming 12 of the first 13 points to surge ahead 3-0. Kyrgios looked out of sorts and struggled to keep up with the American. However, the Aussie managed to break back in the fifth game, levelling the set at 3-3.
Even so, Kyrgios's serve lacked consistency, and McDonald secured a second break to take the set 6-3. Despite the setback, Kyrgios began to find his rhythm, winning 63% of points on his first serve, though he failed to win a single point on his second serve.
Second Set: Kyrgios fights back
In the second set, Kyrgios found his groove on serve while McDonald struggled to handle the Aussie’s pace. Kyrgios earned his first break-point opportunities in the second game but couldn’t capitalise.
With the score at 4-3, Kyrgios finally broke McDonald’s serve, regaining hope of a comeback. He held serve with ease, taking the set 6-3 by playing more aggressively, hitting 14 winners to just eight unforced errors.
Third Set: Kyrgios seals remarkable victory
The third set remained tightly contested early on, with both players holding serve comfortably. McDonald had a chance to break at 3-2 but couldn’t convert. While the American landed 74% of his first serves, Kyrgios remained steady at 76%.
Saving the break point seemed to ignite Kyrgios, who quickly earned two break points at 15-40. After a couple of attempts, he clinched the decisive break for a 5-3 lead. From there, he held his serve to seal a hard-fought 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory.
In the second round, Kyrgios will face 22nd seed Karen Khachanov.
Match Statistics McDonald vs. Kyrgios
| McDonald | VS | Kyrgios |
|---|---|---|
| Service | ||
| 6 | Aces | 13 |
| 1 | Double Faults | 3 |
| 71% (60/84) | 1st Service Percentage | 79% (59/75) |
| 65% (39/60) | 1st Service Points Won | 78% (46/59) |
| 54% (13/24) | 2nd Service Points Won | 41% (7/17) |
| 57% (4/7) | Break Points Saved | 33% (1/3) |
| 79% (11/14) | Service Games | 86% (12/14) |
| Return | ||
| 22% (13/59) | 1st Return Points Won | 35% (21/60) |
| 59% (10/17) | 2nd Return Points Won | 46% (11/24) |
| - | Break Points Saved | - |
| Other | ||
| 1h 45m | Match Duration | 1h 45m |
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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