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đź“» IMPORTANT AUCKLAND UPDATE đź“»
Nick Kyrgios makes call on his Australian Open singles spot
Zac Sharpe •  January 9th, 2026 1:26 pm
Nick Kyrgios has confirmed that he will not be participating in the Men's singles draw for the Australian Open this year, despite being given a wildcard spot to compete in the first Grand Slam of the year.
The 30-year-old revealed the decision on his Instagram account on Friday morning, as well as detailing why the decision was made to let somebody else take his spot this January.
“After some good conversations with TA, I’ve made the call to focus on doubles for this year’s AO. I’m fit and back on court, but 5-setters are a different beast and I’m not quite ready to go the distance yet,” Kyrgios said.
“This tournament means everything to me but I’d rather give my spot to someone who’s ready to make their moment count. It’s all building blocks and I’ll be back next year and pumped to compete. See you out there.”
Per News.com.au, there is an understanding that Australian Open tournament boss Craig Tiley spoke with Kyrgios before he was defeated in Brisbane during the first round of Brisbane International.
It was in this conversation where Kyrgios was informed that he would be given a wildcard spot for this year’s Grand Slam.
After his defeat, both Kyrgios and Tiley spoke again, where Kyrgios communicated his decision on wanting to focus on his doubles campaign instead.
Himself and his doubles partner Thanasi Kokkinakis have drawn popularity over the last few years, thanks to the highly entertaining contests they’ve played in against the best in the world.
You can listen to ALL of the Australian Open coverage this year on SEN and the SEN App, with the qualifiers commencing on the 12th of January.
