Nick Kyrgios reflects on pairing with Novak Djokovic: "It’s important for the fans"

The 2022 Wimbledon runner-up Nick Kyrgios spoke about his partnership with Novak Djokovic at the Brisbane International as he edges closer to his return to the court. The Australian has played just one match in the past two seasons, at the Stuttgart Open in 2023.

Wrist issues forced him to undergo surgery, with a total rupture of the scapholunate ligament causing severe pain and nearly ending his career. However, at 30 years old, Kyrgios decided to make a comeback, expressing great ambitions for his return.

Djokovic and Kyrgios to debut as a team against doubles specialists

A few weeks ago, he surprised fans by announcing a partnership with Djokovic for the Brisbane International, where both had already confirmed their participation in the singles draw. At Brisbane Airport, Kyrgios was welcomed by the tournament organisers, who asked him about his intriguing pairing with the 24-time Grand Slam champion, with whom he has shared a strong off-court rapport over the years.

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“We spoke to him (Djokovic) earlier, he’s super excited,” they told the Australian upon his arrival. “Of course, he is, yes,” Kyrgios responded with a smile. “I mean, everyone thinks it’s a pleasure playing with him; it’s actually a pleasure playing with me, let’s be real,” the former world No. 13 quipped.

“I think we wanted to play together at least once before, you know, either his career ends or mine finishes as well, so to finally do it on my home soil—where, I think for the fans, whenever you get a team-up like this, it’s important that they experience it, because that’s what tennis is about.”

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The last time Djokovic played doubles in the Tour was at the 2023 Paris Masters, about 15 months ago, partnering with fellow Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic to prepare for the Davis Cup. On the other hand, Kyrgios, who rarely plays doubles, has a Grand Slam title to his name, having won the 2022 Australian Open alongside Thanasi Kokkinakis. The duo also competed in the ATP Finals later that year.

Djokovic and Kyrgios will debut as a doubles team on December 29 against doubles specialists Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies. The same day, both players will also compete in singles: Djokovic faces local favourite Rinky Hijikata, while Kyrgios takes on rising star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.

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