Nick Kyrgios has been granted a wildcard entry into the Brisbane International, underlining his determination to compete at the upcoming Australian Open. The tournament, scheduled from January 4-11 in Queensland, will mark his return to competitive action after a prolonged absence due to injuries. Kyrgios, who has played only six ATP Tour matches in more than three years, is aiming to rebuild momentum ahead of Melbourne.
Tournament organisers welcome Kyrgios back
The 2018 Brisbane International champion was officially confirmed as part of the field for the next edition. Tournament director Cameron Pearson expressed excitement at his return. “Nick has long been a favourite with Brisbane crowds and will be a major drawcard for fans,” Pearson said. “We’re thrilled to welcome him back to Brisbane and can’t wait to watch him perform in front of a passionate home crowd.”
Preparing for Melbourne and Kooyong Classic
Following Brisbane, Kyrgios will participate in the Kooyong Classic in Melbourne from January 13-15, a round-robin event that will serve as further preparation. Australian Open organisers are expected to finalise wildcard allocations just before qualifying begins on January 12, leaving Kyrgios hopeful of another opportunity to compete on the grand slam stage.
Kyrgios on recovery and renewed confidence
The former Wimbledon finalist recently spoke about his rehabilitation and the surprising improvement in his knee condition. “I don’t know whether to call it a miracle or anything, but my knee feels like it’s gotten younger by a couple of years,” Kyrgios said. He admitted that at one stage he doubted whether he would play again at the Australian Open. “I really didn’t have hope to be able to play AO or just ever get back to that point of where I felt comfortable and competing and really letting my body go.” Kyrgios credited recent changes in his recovery routine for the turnaround. “Something in the last month, I don’t know what it is. I was with my masseuse and physio last night and something really has changed with my knee. Like it’s not swelling, it’s not feeling bad after a session.”
Exhibition matches and high-profile clash
In addition to his competitive schedule, Kyrgios is set to feature in several exhibition matches, including the much-anticipated “Battle of the Sexes” against women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka in Dubai on December 28. The event will provide another chance for Kyrgios to test his fitness and showcase his flair ahead of his official return to the ATP Tour.
Kyrgios’ comeback is gathering momentum, and his presence in Brisbane marks the first step in what he hopes will be a successful 2026 season.
He's BACK.@NickKyrgios ➡️ Brisbane 2026 pic.twitter.com/IQkPEv7pEO
— Brisbane International (@BrisbaneTennis) December 20, 2025
Nick Kyrgios in 2025
LWLLL Ranked no.673, Kyrgios played his last match on the 21st of March when he was defeated by world no.18 Karen Khachanov 7-6(3) 6-0 in the 2nd round in Miami (draw).
At the moment, during this season Kyrgios has a 1-4 match record.
He is also scheduled to play in Brisbane (Brisbane International). The main draw will start on the 29th of December.
