Who’s battling physical issues ahead of the Australian Open? Kyrgios, Dimitrov, Zverev among 18 players

Saturday, 11 January 2025 at 18:10

Just hours before the Australian Open begins, several players have reported physical issues over recent weeks, including Alexander Zverev, Grigor Dimitrov, Jack Draper, and Nick Kyrgios. The tournament kicks off this Sunday, with as many as 18 players possibly not at their best physical condition.

Players listed with fitness concerns include those who withdrew from tournaments early this year. However, it’s worth noting that some players might take precautionary breaks to avoid injuries or overuse strain, meaning some absences could be preventive rather than injury-driven.

Top players grapple with injuries ahead of Australian Open

Leading the list is World No. 2 Alexander Zverev, who participated in the United Cup, winning round-robin matches against Thiago Monteiro (Brazil) and Zhang Zhizhen (China). However, 'Sascha' complained of bicep pain and decided not to play in the quarterfinals against Kazakhstan, being replaced by Daniel Masur, which led to Germany’s elimination.

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Jack Draper also withdrew from the United Cup to extend his rest before returning to the ATP Tour. The British No. 1 suffered a hip injury, forcing him to skip his only scheduled warm-up tournament. He will arrive at the Australian Open without any official matches.

Grigor Dimitrov performed well at the Brisbane International, reaching the semifinals against Jiri Lehecka. However, he retired during the second set at 4-6, 4-4 due to hip and groin problems. Dimitrov later stated he would take a few days off for recovery but did not indicate that he would miss the Australian Open.

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Jordan Thompson also retired at the Brisbane International, withdrawing during the quarterfinals against Dimitrov due to a right calf injury. He then pulled out of Adelaide to rest for the Australian Open. In the Brisbane final, Reilly Opelka played just five games before retiring with a back injury, handing the title to Lehecka.

Nick Kyrgios cited wrist pain after the Brisbane International, raising concerns about his ability to handle best-of-five matches. He withdrew from exhibition matches in the week before the tournament but remains in the main draw.

Other players facing physical challenges include Tomas Machac, Flavio Cobolli, Fabio Fognini, Thanasi Kokkinakis, and Corentin Moutet.

🚩 Here is a list of players whose fitness levels can be questioned at the #AusOpen :

🇦🇺 Jasika - retirement this week (right knee)
🇫🇮 Virtanen - withdrew from all lead up events (talked about health issues in his IG)
🇺🇸 Opelka - retirement last week (back)
🇫🇷 Halys - retirement… pic.twitter.com/zWZKRmdToc
— Tennis Masterr (@tennismasterr) January 10, 2025

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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